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Germany Today

German news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

FDP Sparks Coalition Tension Over Welfare Cuts

Published: 2024-08-13

The Free Democratic Party (FDP) in Germany has proposed a controversial reduction in the citizen's income, known as Bürgergeld, citing lower-than-expected inflation rates.

FDP parliamentary leader Christian Dürr argues that the current monthly payment of 563 euros is 14 to 20 euros too high.

This proposal has sparked significant backlash from coalition partners, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens, who emphasize the importance of the Bürgergeld for families and vulnerable groups.

The SPD has highlighted legal constraints preventing such cuts, while the Greens have criticized the FDP's approach as unrealistic.

The debate intensifies as Germany faces upcoming elections, with the FDP's stance seen by some as a strategic move to appeal to certain voter bases.

The issue underscores broader tensions within the coalition regarding social policy and economic management.