Concerns are mounting within the German parliament regarding potential cuts to humanitarian aid as lawmakers scrutinize the upcoming federal budget. Several representatives have voiced strong objections to the proposed allocations, highlighting a perceived imbalance between rising defense spending and reductions in programs designed to address global suffering.
Ralf Stegner, a prominent foreign policy spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party (SPD), criticized the situation as a violation of core German values. In comments to the “Rheinische Post” newspaper, Stegner argued that prioritizing global military build-up while simultaneously curtailing humanitarian assistance is inconsistent with Germany’s position as the world’s third-largest economy and its responsibility to offer international support.
Similarly, Ines Schwerdtner, leader of the Left party and a member of parliament focused on budgetary policy, condemned the proposed cuts to development aid. She described the reductions as “a deplorable situation” that risks exacerbating poverty, displacement and conflict, creating a cycle of hardship. Schwerdtner emphasized the need for continued investment in development assistance and international cooperation rather than increased spending on defense and isolationist policies.
