Diakonie Deutschland Supports Social State Reform Proposals with Caution

Diakonie Deutschland has expressed broad support for the reform proposals submitted by the Commission for the Modernization of the Social State, noting that these recommendations could make essential services simpler, more citizen-friendly, and more efficient. Diakonie President Rüdiger Schuch emphasized the fundamental role of a functional social state in maintaining public trust in government and democracy. He described the reform efforts as ambitious and reflective of the commission's commitment to this social goal.

The proposals include creating local first-contact points for citizens and simplifying service access, measures that align with suggestions from Diakonie Deutschland. The planned comprehensive digitalization of the social state aims to facilitate easier access for many people, although it may also introduce obstacles for some citizens, a challenge the organization plans to monitor carefully.

However, Diakonie Deutschland voiced concerns about possible cuts in benefits, especially affecting low-income individuals. The organization is particularly critical of recommendations linking EU citizens’ labor mobility to requirements like full-time employment and minimum employment periods. Schuch highlighted that responsibility for job quality rests more with German employers, who sometimes seek to circumvent social security obligations, rather than with EU workers.

Diakonie Deutschland’s response underscores a cautious optimism toward the reforms, emphasizing the importance of implementation that safeguards vulnerable groups and ensures equitable access to social services.