Revamping Support for Disadvantaged German Regions

Carsten Schneider, the Eastern Commissioner of the German government, has proposed a five-point plan to enhance support for structurally weak regions. Schneider emphasizes the need for a fairer distribution of funds to ensure equitable living conditions across Germany, not just in affluent cities like Munich and Münster.

His plan advocates for financial allocations based on specific needs rather than the traditional Königstein formula, which relies on population and tax revenue. This approach aims to help underfunded areas such as the Erzgebirge and the Ruhr region.

Additionally, the plan suggests increasing investments in infrastructure, especially in sparsely populated regions where basic costs are higher. By addressing these disparities, Schneider seeks to strengthen economic and social cohesion throughout the country.