SPD Advocates for Strict Sanctions on Illegal Work Amid Social Policy Debate

SPD General Secretary Matthias Miersch has advocated for stringent sanctions against recipients of citizens' allowance who engage in illegal work. Emphasizing the SPD's commitment to social policy, Miersch insists on 'tough sanctions' for those who work illegally while receiving benefits. He criticized the Union's proposal for mandatory work requirements for citizens' allowance recipients, labeling it as 'highly dangerous' populism. Miersch reminded that the CDU and CSU had previously supported the citizens’ allowance.

The Union has proposed to abolish the citizens' allowance in their election program, aiming to replace it with a 'new basic security' system. This system would completely cut benefits for individuals deemed unwilling to work. In contrast, the SPD remains committed to maintaining the citizens' allowance in their platform.

Miersch also addressed economic policies, asserting that the SPD government will implement a €15 minimum wage by 2026, if necessary, overriding the minimum wage commission. Currently, the minimum wage stands at €12.82. The SPD's election program calls for alignment with the European minimum wage directive, which recommends at least 60% of the median income. Miersch expressed confidence that Olaf Scholz would continue as Chancellor, dismissing the possibility of Friedrich Merz assuming the role.

As the Bundestag elections approach, these contrasting policies highlight the broader debate on social welfare and labor rights in Germany, reflecting the ideological divide between the SPD’s focus on social policy and the Union's push for reform and austerity.