He highlighted a consistent rise in social welfare expenditure coinciding with what he described as the longest economic crisis since the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany He noted that approximately €13 trillion was allocated to social benefits in 2024 – a record high – representing nearly one-third of the nation’s gross domestic product dedicated to pensions, care services and other social programs
Wohlfeil argued that a reform of the social welfare system is long overdue He warned that failure to act decisively will exacerbate the existing economic difficulties, emphasizing the need for “genuine and far-reaching reforms” that reduce costs and improve both effectiveness and efficiency He asserted that a stable economy is fundamental to a stable government
Therefore, Gesamtmetall voiced its support for the newly established Commission for Social Welfare Reform, which is tasked with reviewing the efficacy and efficiency of all social benefits and providing recommendations Wohlfeil stated that the association will evaluate the Commission based on its output, asserting that maintaining a viable social welfare system requires more than superficial adjustments
