Schwerin, a city in Germany, has become the first to mandate work for recipients of Bürgergeld, a social welfare program.

The city council approved the measure, requiring able-bodied recipients to perform community service in places like schools or charities.

Non-compliance could lead to reduced benefits.

The proposal, initially targeting asylum seekers, was expanded by the CDU to include all Bürgergeld recipients.

Critics, including Schwerin's mayor, argue the plan is costly and complex to implement.

Supporters see it as a fair exchange for state support, sparking national debate on whether this model should be adopted across Germany.