Comment by Oliver Stock: The state is attacking marriage and shooting itself in the foot.

2026-06-22

A German opinion column argues that the state is gradually weakening the financial and legal advantages of marriage, despite its long-standing role in reducing welfare costs and supporting social stability.

According to the commentary, reforms in areas such as joint taxation for married couples (Ehegattensplitting / income splitting for spouses), free co-insurance in public health insurance, and widow’s pensions are slowly making marriage less financially attractive. The author claims these changes are often presented as modernization or fairness reforms, but collectively reduce benefits for married couples.

One of the main points of debate is Germany’s tax system for spouses, which allows couples with uneven incomes to be taxed jointly. Critics of reform argue this system supports traditional family structures, while some economists say it discourages additional workforce participation, particularly among women.

The column also highlights proposed changes to health insurance rules, where non-working spouses may no longer be covered for free in the future, and discussions about reforming survivor pensions. These measures, the author argues, follow a broader trend of shifting costs and responsibilities from the state to individuals.

Supporters of reform say these adjustments promote equality and economic efficiency, while critics warn they weaken the institution of marriage, which they view as a key social structure that reduces pressure on public welfare systems by sharing financial and caregiving responsibilities within families.