Saxony's Kretschmer Advocates Revisions to Citizen Income for Ukrainian Refugees

In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding the Citizen Income (Bürgergeld) system in Germany, Saxony's Minister-President Michael Kretschmer from the CDU party has expressed support for modifications that would affect Ukrainian refugees. He emphasized the need for reforms that would make the system more equitable for both German citizens and newcomers. Kretschmer made his remarks during a segment on ZDF's morning program, stating that the government allocates a staggering EUR47 billion to the Citizen Income scheme, asserting that such expenditure is unsustainable and should be reduced.

Kretschmer questioned the rationale behind the state's financial commitments, pointing out instances where individuals are receiving benefits despite not being in dire need. He highlighted that this issue is particularly pertinent to Ukrainian refugees, referencing comparative employment rates in other European countries such as France, the Netherlands, Poland, and the Czech Republic, where the proportion of working individuals among refugees is significantly higher than in Germany.

In a related development, Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil from the SPD announced on Deutschlandfunk that new arrivals from Ukraine will no longer be eligible for Citizen Income. He refrained from discussing specific proposals for budget cuts in detail. The coalition agreement between the CDU and SPD stipulates that refugees granted residency under the Mass Arrival Directive, who arrive after April 1, 2025, will revert to receiving benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act, provided they demonstrate financial need.

Moreover, Kanzleramtschef Thorsten Frei indicated a willingness to consider the suggestion put forth by Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder. Söder has called for a stricter approach regarding Citizen Income, proposing that Ukrainians living in Germany should not receive these benefits, a stance he believes should apply not only to future arrivals but also to those currently residing in the country.

Frei acknowledged Söder's assertions, noting that Germany's support for refugees is unparalleled globally, which has led to poorer integration outcomes compared to other nations. He pointed out that only one in three employable Ukrainians in Germany are currently in the workforce.

However, SPD parliamentary group leader Dirk Wiese criticized the notion that cuts to Citizen Income for Ukrainians would yield substantial savings. He warned that such a move could lead to significant bureaucratic challenges, especially for local governments, which would offset any potential financial benefits. Wiese argued that the administrative burden might negate the anticipated budgetary relief.

The Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksij Makejew, also condemned Söder's remarks, describing his demands as difficult to understand. Makejew asserted that Ukrainian refugees should not be scapegoated for issues related to the Citizen Income system. The head of the CDU's labor wing, Dennis Radtke, previously expressed similar sentiments in a media interview, criticizing Söder's proposals.

In the past year, expenditures for Citizen Income have surged by approximately EUR4 billion, totaling EUR46.9 billion, with 5.5 million individuals receiving the benefit. The black-red coalition aims to reduce these costs, with politicians from both parties advocating for stricter measures against those who refuse to work.