A significant austerity package has been proposed by Markus Söder, leader of the Christian Social Union (CSU) and Minister-President of Bavaria, as a measure to consolidate the federal budget. Söder emphasized the necessity of fiscal responsibility, stating that substantial savings are achievable across several key areas.
Specifically, Söder indicated potential for cuts to social welfare programs, including the “Bürgergeld” – a basic citizen’s income – suggesting its abolition and a corresponding reduction in housing allowances, coupled with a requirement for recipients to accept reasonable work. He also proposed halving funding allocated to subsidies for heat pumps, a key component of the country’s heating legislation, referencing last year’s allocation of 16.7 billion euros for efficient building programs.
Regarding asylum seekers, Söder highlighted opportunities for savings through reduced benefits for individuals subject to deportation orders who are not granted a reprieve. He further extended this principle to international development aid, arguing that countries unwilling to accept the return of their citizens facing deportation should not receive German financial assistance.
Söder underscored the importance of prioritizing economic growth as a central objective in navigating the budgetary challenges, framing his proposals as essential steps toward achieving fiscal stability.