Berlin’s Senator for Social Affairs, Cansel Kiziltepe (SPD), has voiced strong concerns regarding recent comments made by federal parliamentary group leader Friedrich Merz (CDU) concerning potential reforms to Germany’s social welfare system. Kiziltepe described Merz’s initiated debate as potentially creating “social explosives” highlighting what she sees as a disconnect between government spending priorities.
Speaking to the “Tagesspiegel” newspaper, Kiziltepe expressed reservations about Merz’s assertion that Germany can no longer afford its current welfare structure. She argued that it is difficult to reconcile the allocation of significant funds for certain areas, like defense, with the prospect of reducing social benefits. She emphasized the necessity for policymakers to maintain a balance between competing demands.
Kiziltepe further suggested that instead of considering cuts to social programs, the government should focus on generating new revenue streams. She proposed exploring options such as closing loopholes in inheritance tax law, which she estimates could yield up to €20 billion in additional income. Kiziltepe challenged Merz to broaden his perspective and address potential sources of increased revenue rather than focusing on reductions to existing provisions.
