Hessen’s Ministerpräsident, Boris Rhein (CDU), has advocated for stricter sanctions within the social welfare system, emphasizing that asylum seekers should also bear responsibility. Speaking in the Politico Berlin Playbook Podcast, Rhein stated that the aim is to support those who are actively contributing, noting that this means implementing strong and strict measures against those who refuse to work. Furthermore, Rhein outlined clear expectations for immigrants, insisting that refugees coming to Germany must work and contribute financially. He argued that the federal government as a whole needs to adopt a new course of reform, stating, “We need a total reform restart from the federal government”. According to Rhein, economic growth must be the central focus, adding, “We must first do everything possible to stimulate the economy”. As a concrete measure, he proposed tax-free overtime. However, he also issued a warning against increasing financial burdens, declaring, “What we absolutely do not need right now is a discussion about the inheritance tax”.
Politics
