The Saarland Minister-President, Anke Rehlinger of the SPD, has publicly urged the federal government to approach necessary reform projects in a more coordinated and disciplined manner. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, she asserted that achieving the “central reform packages” for the health, nursing, and pension insurance sectors, alongside reforms to the tax system, is completely achievable within the current year.
Rehlinger emphasized that successful reform requires all parties to recognize their collective responsibility, maintain composure, and focus on working cooperatively rather than against each other. She expressed confidence that “smart and fair reforms will not fail with the SPD”.
According to the SPD politician, three major reform missions are essential: First, utilizing the special funds to finally address the decades-long backlog of infrastructure investments. Second, requiring both the federal government and the states (Länder) to jointly modernize state and administrative structures while massively cutting bureaucracy. Third, and critically, implementing comprehensive reforms across the social security systems.
She issued a warning that if these measures are not taken, mandatory contributions will rise drastically, impacting the households of all citizens. Looking toward the current black-and-red coalition, Rehlinger concluded by acknowledging the difficulties involved but maintaining that carrying the responsibility for the country is inherently challenging.