New basic security: Merz plans hard sanctions for job seekers!

New basic security: Merz plans hard sanctions for job seekers!

Deutschland - The debate about redesigning basic security in Germany is gaining drive. Olaf Scholz (SPD) and Friedrich Merz (CDU) are characterized by the main actors. Scholz clearly takes a position and describes himself as the strongest supporter of hard sanctions in the context of basic security and civil allowance. Merz, on the other hand, plans to convert citizens into a new basic security that is associated with significantly harder sanctions. This project was determined in the exploratory talks of the Union and the SPD with regard to a realignment of social policy, whereby the adoption of the citizen benefit and the introduction of a new basic security for job seekers are in the foreground. Therefore, a comprehensive reform in social policy is already in implementation.

A central point of this reform is the application for the recipient of the new basic security. These have to actively strive for employment and receive support in mediation. A quick and unbureaucratic enforcement of the sanctions is at the top. Merz plans to sanction "total confident", which in extreme cases can also result in the full withdrawal of the new basic security if reasonable job offers are rejected.

planned sanctions and concerns

In the critical discussion about the new regulations, different experts express their concerns. Michaela Engelmeier from the SOVD warns of the dangers of tightening that could endanger the balance between support and demand. Anja Piel from the DGB shows that job seekers could come under pressure through the new regulations. The Federal Constitutional Court could also conflict with the planned sanctions, especially with regard to the full benefits, since according to a judgment, cuts of more than 30 percent are only allowed in exceptional cases. It is also noted in the discussion that the implementation of the measures raises constitutional issues that were highlighted by the Social Association VdK Germany.

The previous sanctions in basic security, known as "Hartz IV" and recently reformed with the citizen benefit, based on existing regulations of unemployment and social assistance. Sanctions were imposed on both the failure of the report and in the event of breaches of duty, which in the recent past has led to a distortation of competition and various financial difficulties for those affected. Studies show that sanctions can promote employment, but also have a negative impact on the quality of employment and the mental health of those affected.

The new basic security and future challenges

The standard rate for single adults has been 563 euros per month since 2024, with recipients receiving additional services for living and heating costs. However, it is criticized that the citizenship benefit does not offer sufficient incentives to take up work, which is why the new system should strive for stronger focus on employment and faster access to reasonable employment. Long -term qualification measures are dealt with.

The discussion about the realignment of basic security will continue to be shaped by the complexity of the matter. It remains to be seen how the political actors will shape the balance between the enforcement of duties of cooperation and the guarantee of a decent life, while the public debates on the meaningfulness and effects of sanctions are continued. The path to a socially equal and at the same time requirements Starfen will continue to be accompanied by numerous challenges in the future.

For further information about the background of the planned reforms and their effects on those affected, it is advisable to pursue the consent and reviews by experts, as they are in the reports of Südkurier , t-online and bpb are recorded.