Marking this year’s Day for Children, the leader of the Left Party, Jan van Aken, is advocating for a significant increase to child benefits. In an interview with the “Rheinische Post” van Aken proposed a swift rise in child benefit payments to €350 per child. Currently, families receive €255 per child.
“This would provide our children and grandchildren with nearly €100 more per month” van Aken stated. He characterized such a measure as “concrete and uncomplicated assistance that reaches people immediately and eases their daily lives”. He expressed concern regarding the financial strain faced by many parents, asserting it to be “a disgrace for a wealthy nation.
The proposal comes amidst ongoing governmental efforts to address the financial well-being of single parents, a commitment outlined in the current coalition agreement. The agreement also includes plans for a national children and youth summit.
Van Aken emphasized the increasing cost of living and the lack of corresponding relief for households. He framed the Day for Children as a reminder of the anxieties many families are experiencing, arguing that those raising children should be able to cover expenses for both themselves and their children. He concluded by stating it’s “time to return something to children and parents”.
