Germany's state interior ministers are pushing for a significant tightening of measures against welfare fraud, including proposed cuts to social benefits for EU nationals living in the country. The plans are outlined in draft resolutions ahead of the Interior Ministers' Conference (IMK), which is taking place in Hamburg from Wednesday to Friday, as reported by Bild newspaper.
Among the measures under consideration is an expanded digital data-sharing system, alongside the deployment of artificial intelligence to automatically identify fraudulent patterns and enable faster identification of those committing welfare fraud.
The interior ministers also want to examine whether it is possible to make it harder for EU citizens to claim Bürgergeld, Germany's basic income support. The concern centres on people, particularly from southeastern Europe, who work in Germany for only a few months before becoming entitled to the benefit. The ministers are seeking ways to prevent this from happening.
A further area under review is the level of child benefit paid to EU nationals in Germany whose children remain in their home countries. Currently, these parents receive the same amount as those whose children live in Germany. The ministers want to examine whether those payments should be reduced.
The draft resolution cited by Bild states that welfare fraud and misuse "endanger public acceptance of social benefits, undermine the integrity and functionality of state support mechanisms, and represent a significant burden on social systems and the national budget across Germany." The stated aim of the proposed measures is to make the welfare state "less susceptible to fraud."
From breaking news to thought-provoking opinion pieces, our newsletter keeps you informed & engaged.
