A heated exchange has erupted in Germany concerning the affordability of housing for citizens receiving social welfare benefits. Kassem Taher Saleh, the Green Party’s spokesperson for construction and housing policy, strongly criticized recent remarks by Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz regarding potential adjustments to housing cost allowances for individuals receiving citizen’s income.
Saleh accused Merz of targeting vulnerable populations, arguing that the leader’s suggestion to reduce housing cost support places additional financial strain on those already struggling. “Millions of people in our country can no longer afford their rent” Saleh stated, emphasizing the potential for increased insecurity and fear of losing their homes in the event of job loss.
Merz, in a recent interview with ARD television, proposed a review of the flat-rate allowance system for housing costs within the citizen’s income framework, suggesting the possibility of implementing lower rates. He indicated that a comprehensive assessment of these measures is currently underway within the governing coalition.
Saleh urged the federal government to move beyond broad announcements and present concrete proposals for creating affordable housing solutions, expressing disappointment with the lack of tangible action seen thus far. The debate highlights ongoing tensions surrounding social welfare policy and the challenge of ensuring accessible and affordable housing across Germany.
