(de-news.net) – The Federal Ministry of Labor has confirmed that recipients of Bürgergeld (citizens’ money) will face a continued freeze in benefit increases for the forthcoming year, alongside the implementation of stricter sanctions. The freeze is attributed to the substantial adjustment made in 2024, when inflation prompted a significant rise in benefit levels. As inflation has since declined, current rates are considered comparatively high. Nevertheless, due to statutory protections, reductions in benefits for the approximately 5.6 million recipients remain legally prohibited.

Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) introduced a series of enhanced sanctions targeting noncompliance. These measures include an increase in penalties for missed appointments at job centers—from 10 percent to 30 percent of monthly benefits—and the complete withdrawal of support for individuals who repeatedly refuse employment opportunities. SPD Parliamentary Secretary Dirk Wiese emphasized, on his part, that these changes form part of a broader Bürgergeld reform initiative aimed at preventing misuse and improving administrative efficiency. He further stressed the necessity of comprehensive welfare reforms to reduce bureaucratic complexity and enhance operational effectiveness.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) expressed its support for the proposed one-year moratorium on Bürgergeld increases. CDU Parliamentary Secretary Steffen Bilger described the measure as “a correct signal,” underscoring that Bürgergeld expenditures need not continue to escalate. He reiterated the urgency of structural reform and announced the CDU’s intention to replace the current Bürgergeld framework with a new basic income assistance model. Bilger confirmed that the revised system will incorporate expanded sanctioning mechanisms for individuals who are capable of working but choose not to, framing this approach as a matter of fairness to those who are employed and contribute to the tax base.