The FDP has launched a scathing critique of the bureaucratic relief measures recently approved by the German government, accusing coalition partners of a profound lack of reform commitment. Christian Dürr, leader of the Free Democratic Party, characterized the announced reductions as a “sham” following what he deemed broken promises from coalition partner Friedrich Merz regarding debt brakes and citizen allowances.
The government’s package, unveiled on Wednesday, is being condemned for failing to deliver substantial benefits to citizens and businesses. Dürr pointed out that the proposed bureaucratic streamlining amounts to only a few hundred million euros – a significantly smaller figure than the FDP previously secured against the staunchly regulatory Green Party and its leading figure, Robert Habeck. He claimed the FDP instigated reductions ten times greater than those now being presented by the “black-red” coalition government.
Specific concern has been raised regarding the potential impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Dürr highlighted the looming burden of the proposed “loyalty to collective bargaining agreements” law (Tariftreuegesetz) as particularly damaging, arguing it would saddle SMEs with unnecessary administrative overhead. This law, mandating businesses to adhere to collective bargaining conditions when executing federal contracts exceeding a value of €50,000, is viewed by the FDP as particularly detrimental.
Beyond the tangible financial implications, Dürr’s criticism reflects a broader concern over governmental inertia. He lamented that the much-heralded “autumn of reform” appears to be slipping into a state of governmental hibernation, while the country hurtles towards economic instability. The FDP is now advocating for bold, decisive reforms encompassing the social welfare system, pension provisions and, critically, an immediate halt to the constant influx of new bureaucratic regulations. The party is increasingly framing the lack of progress as a significant impediment to Germany’s economic prospects and a betrayal of reform pledges.