Escalating Long-Term Unemployment Crisis in Germany Sparks Political Firestorm
A concerning surge in long-term unemployment has reignited political debate in Germany, with official figures revealing a return to levels exceeding one million individuals. According to a parliamentary response to a query from AfD parliamentarian Jan Feser and reported by “Bild”, 1,042,517 people were classified as long-term unemployed – defined as those without work for at least one year – as of November 2025. This cohort represents a significant 36.1% of the total unemployed population, highlighting a systemic challenge within the German labor market.
The data has amplified existing anxieties surrounding the efficacy of current welfare policies and spurred accusations of inadequate integration measures. Notably, the proportion of foreign nationals comprising the long-term unemployed has seen a disproportionate increase. Some 32.7% of individuals classified as long-term unemployed lack German citizenship, a statistic that has become a focal point for political maneuvering.
Official government expenditure data for 2024 reveals a substantial financial burden stemming from these social welfare obligations. A total of €3.26 billion in social security benefits was disbursed to foreign long-term unemployed individuals, excluding expenses related to housing, healthcare and potential future pension liabilities. The total expenditure for long-term unemployment benefits under the SGB II, covering all eligible individuals regardless of nationality, reached an overall €9.91 billion for the year.
The escalating costs and persistent numbers are fueling criticism from across the political spectrum, albeit with varying agendas. The AfD, which initiated the parliamentary inquiry, is utilizing the statistics to advocate for stricter immigration policies and a reevaluation of social welfare provisions. Centrist and progressive voices, while acknowledging the severity of the situation, are emphasizing the need for enhanced vocational training programs and targeted integration support initiatives, questioning whether the current system adequately addresses the root causes of long-term unemployment and fosters sustainable employment pathways.
The figures raise critical questions about Germany’s ability to effectively manage its social welfare system and integrate a significant portion of its workforce, particularly given the ongoing debates surrounding immigration and demographic shifts. The political fallout is likely to intensify, potentially influencing upcoming legislative debates regarding social welfare reform and labor market integration policies.