The Minister of Labor challenges CDU's plans to abolish Bürgergeld
Berlin - Before Friedrich Merz was officially elected Chancellor of Germany, the Secretary General of the CDU party, Carsten Linnemann, emphasized last week the need to reform the social assistance system known as 'Bürgergeld'.
He confirmed in a statement to the Bild newspaper that the new coalition government agreement clearly stipulates the "abolition of the current Bürgergeld system and its replacement with a new basic support system," pointing out that this will be implemented as agreed.
Although the CDU party promotes the idea of "abolishing" Bürgergeld, the government agreement does not talk about complete abolition but rather about reforming the Second Social Code (SGB II), which has regulated what is known as "basic support for the unemployed" since the Hartz reforms. This reform includes reinstating the possibility of completely stopping assistance in certain cases, as well as accelerating the acceptance of available jobs for the unemployed.
In contrast, the new Minister of Labor, Barbel Bas from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), believes that Bürgergeld should not be abolished but developed. She emphasized in a television interview with ARD that she prefers to "develop" the system rather than abolish it, focusing on improving the integration of the unemployed into the labor market rather than on sanctions.
Despite the fact that the reform is the responsibility of the Ministry of Labor, which remains in the hands of the Socialist Party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is seeking to impose its more stringent vision. Barbel Bas, who has long criticized Hartz IV policies, confirmed in her statements that she will focus on strengthening the labor market, ensuring fair wages, and enhancing the means that help people obtain suitable job opportunities, while improving the pension system.
However, Bass did not provide detailed information about her plans regarding the new support system, raising questions about her commitment to the coalition agreement, especially since the agreement also stipulates enhancing the integration of the unemployed by qualifying them and providing sufficient resources for local job centers (Jobcenter). This includes greater support for vocational training, healthcare, and rehabilitation programs.
Labor market experts support Bass's position, pointing out that focusing on training and education is more effective than sanctions. Researcher Enzo Weber from the Institute for Employment Research and Vocational Education (IAB) confirmed that severe sanctions usually do not lead to positive results, and Dagmar Brendel, director of one of the employment offices, warned against putting excessive pressure on the unemployed.
However, Barbel Bas does not completely reject the strict approach; she has confirmed on several occasions that she is committed to combating those who misuse social assistance. She stated on the Maischberger television program that her mission is to integrate people into the labor market and punish those who exploit the system. This may indicate that the new Minister of Labor, despite her differences with the CDU in form, may agree with them in substance on some points.