A prominent social law expert has challenged a recent proposal to exclude EU citizens working in “Mini-Jobs” from receiving welfare benefits, arguing the move would violate EU foundational treaties. Udo Geiger, speaking to the Handelsblatt newspaper, stated that a regulation targeting only citizens of other member states would necessitate a reciprocal action against German Mini-Job holders also receiving welfare support.
Geiger criticized the ongoing debate as lacking substance, highlighting that poverty-related migration from EU nations with less developed social systems has long been recognized as a consequence of EU expansion, rather than an inherent injustice. He stated that framing this as a newly emergent issue is a misrepresentation when aiming for a reasoned discussion.
Previously, policymakers have refrained from intervention on this matter because it is generally understood that individuals utilizing minimal employment as a means to supplement social security benefits do not possess the same rights of free movement and, consequently, are not entitled to welfare assistance. Job centers are already equipped to demonstrate this by offering suitable employment opportunities and requesting applications for full-time positions.
Furthermore, Job centers are not obligated to cover inflated rental costs associated with substandard housing. They have the authority to request documentation such as lease agreements, utility bills and bank statements and can carry out inspections of properties. The incentive to utilize Mini-Jobs to access supplementary welfare support applies equally to EU citizens and German residents. Geiger suggested a broader consideration – the potential abolishment of the Mini-Job system altogether.
