The German government is facing renewed scrutiny over the long-standing practice of free spousal coverage within the statutory health insurance system (GKV), a policy critics argue perpetuates gender inequality and hinders economic growth. Health Minister Nina Warken, a prominent figure within the CDU and its affiliated Women’s Union, has publicly questioned the sustainability and fairness of the current arrangement, signaling a potential shift in policy direction.
Responding to inquiries from the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Warken acknowledged the broader goal of incentivizing greater participation of women in the workforce, including for retirement planning. While emphasizing a need for “socially compatible” implementation, her comments strongly suggest a reconsideration of the automatic free coverage currently extended to spouses, predominantly women, who are not independently employed.
Germany’s labor market is characterized by a comparatively high rate of part-time work and non-participation amongst married partners, a demographic skew largely impacting women. Economists have long advocated for reforms aimed at boosting workforce participation, arguing that increased labor supply could invigorate the German economy. The current system, they contend, disincentivizes women from pursuing full-time employment, maintaining a dependence on their partner’s insurance.
Currently, approximately 2.5 million spouses benefit from this free coverage. Were this privilege to be rescinded, the mandatory monthly contribution for non-working spouses would be calculated at roughly €220, according to GKV estimations. This proposal has gained traction from influential business lobbies, with the Association of German Employers (BDA) openly calling for the end of this benefit, arguing it could generate an additional €2.8 billion annually for health insurance funds.
The potential reform, described by Warken as a “paradigm shift” represents a politically sensitive area, likely to encounter resistance from those who benefit from the current system and raising concerns about the potential impact on family finances. Critics also argue that placing financial burdens on non-working spouses could exacerbate existing inequalities and disproportionately affect lower-income families. The debate underscores a deeper societal discussion regarding gender roles, economic incentives and the ongoing reform of Germany’s social welfare model.