Increasing expenses for children in citizens' money: A look at 2023

Increasing expenses for children in citizens' money: A look at 2023

Berlin (dpa) - The federal spending expenses for children and adolescents as part of the citizens' allowance were impressive 5.6 billion euros last year. These figures result from a request from the AfD member of the Bundestag, René Springer, to the Federal Social Ministry and make a highlight of financial support for one of the more vulnerable groups in society.

The rising costs and their causes

The 5.6 billion euros for children in citizens' money (formerly known as Hartz IV) are in the context of a significant increase in minors. While only 1.67 million minors benefited from such services in 2010, around 1.8 million at the end of 2023. This corresponds to an increase of 7.8 percent over a period in which the total population of Germany also grew.

Demographic change: Children on the social network

The demographic changes are also evident in the relationship between German and foreign minor beneficiaries. In 2010 there was still a clear majority of German recipients, while the numbers are almost balanced by the end of 2023: 907,000 Germans against 894,000 foreign minors. In particular, the number of children from Ukraine has increased significantly with 262,000. This reflects the challenges with which Germany is confronted in the course of migration.

The social implications of the citizens' benefit

With 12.6 percent of the population under the age of 18, which received citizenship in 2023, the perception of this support in society is of great importance. In this context, Springer asked to rethink incentives to migrate to the social systems. The aim of these demands is to initiate a clear "migration turn" that takes into account both social and economic implications of these developments.

conclusion: a growing social security network

Overall, the futuristic issues of expenditure that arise from the increasing expenditure for the citizen benefit are a clear sign of the need for a profound social discussion about social justice in Germany. While support is undoubtedly important for children and adolescents, the increase in expenses also requires a thinking about the sustainability and effectiveness of the existing systems. The status quo requires a critical analysis in order to be able to guarantee that the citizens' benefit meets the needs of society without neglecting the challenges that arise from the current situation.

- Nag