German social association: Merz’s statements ‘socially dangerous’
The Social Association of Germany (SoVD) has accused Chancellor Friedrich Merz of dividing society with his statements about the welfare state.
Merz is “dipping into the rhetorical bag of tricks and creating the impression that the welfare state would financially ruin us,” SoVD chairwoman Michaela Engelmeier told dpa. “This is not only factually incorrect but also socially dangerous.”
Merz reaffirmed the necessity for social reforms on Saturday. “As it is now, particularly with the so-called citizen’s income, it cannot remain and will not remain,” Merz said at the state party conference of his Christian Deomcratic Union (CDU) party in Bonn, referring to the basic welfare payment.
The chancellor announced that this would also mean cuts. “We have been living beyond our means for years,” the chancellor, who is also CDU leader, said.
Engelmeier emphasized that the welfare state is the solidary foundation of cohesion from which everyone benefits. “Instead of social cuts, what is needed is a fair tax reform with a greater contribution from high wealth,” demanded the SoVD chairwoman.
