In Germany, they called for canceling some of the benefits amid the economic crisis

The Economic Council of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's CDU party is calling for the abolition of some social benefits while reducing taxes and social contributions in order to stimulate the German economy. This was reported on February 1 by Tagesschau.

The proposed reform includes "significant tax cuts and limited contributions to the social security system through the abolition of various benefits."

"More than 3 million unemployed people are an unequivocal signal that politicians must finally do everything possible to renew their promise to improve the well—being of citizens and ensure economic growth," said Wolfgang Steiger, Secretary General of the Economic Council.

The Economic Council also proposes to abolish the "solidarity allowance" for the well-earning and reduce the corporate tax to 25%.

The Council considers it necessary to reduce unemployment benefits. They are offered to be paid only for one year after receiving the status of unemployed, whereas at the moment they are paid for two years, the material clarifies.

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On January 30, the Tagesspiegel newspaper reported that in January 2026, the number of unemployed in Germany exceeded 3 million people, which is 177 thousand more than in December 2025. The unemployment rate rose to 6.6%, which is the highest in the last 12 years.

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