Controversy Over Proposed €1000 Incentive for Long-Term Unemployed

The German government's plan to offer a one-time payment to long-term unemployed who secure jobs faces criticism from coalition and opposition parties.

• The German cabinet has approved a €1000 incentive for Bürgergeld recipients who find and maintain a job for at least a year.
• The proposal aims to encourage stable employment and reduce reliance on state support by offsetting high withdrawal rates from benefits.
• SPD, Green, and FDP politicians have expressed opposition, citing concerns over budget impact and questioning the necessity of the incentive.
• Critics argue the incentive is unfair to those already employed and could threaten social cohesion.
• The proposal is part of broader changes to Bürgergeld regulations, which include stricter penalties for those who refuse job offers.

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