German Coalition Divided Over Stricter Bürgergeld Sanctions Proposal

Union and SPD push for total benefit withdrawal for non-compliant recipients, while Greens warn of constitutional conflicts and societal harm.

Union and SPD propose complete withdrawal of Bürgergeld benefits for recipients who repeatedly refuse reasonable work offers.
The Green Party strongly opposes the proposal, calling it unconstitutional and counterproductive to improving employment outcomes.
Deputy Green parliamentary leader Andreas Audretsch highlights that only 0.4% of Bürgergeld recipients currently face sanctions for non-compliance.
The Federal Constitutional Court has ruled that sanctions cannot deprive individuals of basic necessities, setting clear legal limits on welfare reforms.
Greens advocate for alternative approaches, including increased funding for job training, placement programs, and a fair minimum wage, to address unemployment.