The Federal President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, has called upon the German government to undertake a fundamental reform of the social welfare system. In a speech delivered Tuesday at the 83rd German Social Care Conference in Erfurt, Steinmeier emphasized the urgent need for a swift and decisive effort to enhance the system’s efficiency and user-friendliness. According to a manuscript reported by the Tagesspiegel, Steinmeier’s remarks highlighted the necessity of correcting systemic errors, improving the precision of social benefits and actively combating abuse within the system.
The President underscored the imperative of modernized communication and data management, noting that an “exchange of information between social authorities” and “digitalization of administrative processes” are significantly overdue. He urged for courageous political action, asserting that elected officials have a responsibility to address challenges beyond partisan considerations or public opinion polls.
Addressing the governing coalition directly, Steinmeier stated, “Dear Coalition: This is not about party tactics or opinion polls. It is about our country. It is about the difficult balance of interests and about making wise decisions on the matter. You must do justice to this responsibility.
Steinmeier expressed confidence that reforming the social welfare system represents an opportunity to regain public trust. He argued that improvements, particularly in areas currently causing concern, can demonstrate the state’s ability to effectively resolve problems. He believes that these reforms constitute a vital aspect of democratic policy and encourages the coalition to proceed with boldness and perseverance, anticipating positive outcomes for all citizens.
The President articulated the need to ensure the social welfare system’s future viability and to prove that political action can effectively address pressing issues. He acknowledged that the current system is straining and that reform is essential. It’s worth noting that Steinmeier was a key architect of the “Agenda 2010” a comprehensive reform program initiated by the previous red-green government under Chancellor Gerhard Schröder.
