German Parliament Approves Welfare Reform Amid Heated Debate

 

On Thursday (March 5, 2026), the Bundestag voted to replace the citizen’s benefit (Bürgergeld) with a new system called basic security (Grundsicherung).

• The bill passed with 320 votes in favor, 268 against, and two abstentions from SPD members.

• The government argues the reform makes support “more targeted and fair,” requiring stronger cooperation with job centers and allowing faster benefit cuts for non-compliance.

• Opposition parties, unions, and social organizations warn it could increase poverty and tighten sanctions on millions of recipients.

• Politically, the reform is seen as a victory for the CDU/CSU, while the SPD backed down despite youth wing resistance.

• Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the move, stating: “Anyone who can work should indeed work. This is social justice.”

Sources – Agencies