Minister Reiche Pressures Govt to Overhaul Social Safety Nets
Politics

Minister Reiche Pressures Govt to Overhaul Social Safety Nets

Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche (CDU) is increasing the pressure within the federal government to reform the social state. Speaking to the “Handelsblatt” (Thursday edition) after discussions in Berlin involving the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and other departments alongside state and local government leaders, Reiche stated that “the proposals from the Social State Commission have been available since early 2026-they are well-thought-out, thoroughly justified, and implementable”. Reiche emphasized the need for action, stating, “We must now demonstrate that we are serious and tackle the necessary structural reforms”. She added that the coalition committee over the weekend sent “important signals” regarding these structural reforms, noting that “contribution stability must be at the heart of these changes”.