dw.com
German Budget Crisis: Uncertainty Until 2025
Germany faces prolonged budget uncertainty due to a collapsed ruling coalition, potentially lasting until mid-2025. A provisional budget is likely, limiting government action and causing opposition criticism.
Polish
Germany
EconomyGermany German PoliticsBudgetCoalitionCrisis
BundestagCdu/CsuFdpSpdGreen Party
Helge BraunOlaf ScholzRobert HabeckJörg KukiesTorsten Herbst
- What is the situation regarding the 2024 budget in Germany?
- Uncertainty also extends to the 2024 budget, with opposition parties unwilling to assist with a necessary revision. Failure to pass a revision could lead to a budget freeze under the new finance minister.
- What are the limitations of a provisional budget in Germany?
- A provisional budget allows for essential government operations, including social welfare payments, but limits new initiatives. Planned projects, like the Digital Pact 2.0 and railway upgrades, may be delayed or cancelled.
- What is the main cause of the current budget uncertainty in Germany?
- Germany's collapse of the ruling coalition has caused significant budget uncertainty, potentially lasting until summer 2025. The government may rely on a provisional budget, limiting its flexibility and potentially freezing some programs.
- How has the opposition reacted to the government's handling of the budget crisis?
- Opposition parties criticize Chancellor Scholz for his handling of the situation, accusing him of prioritizing his minority government over the needs of citizens and businesses. The opposition believes this strategy risks harming the German economy.
- When does the head of the Bundestag's budget committee expect the 2025 budget to be passed?
- The head of the Bundestag's budget committee, Helge Braun, doubts the minority government can pass a 2025 budget, predicting a delay until mid-year or even autumn. A provisional budget will be necessary until a new one is passed.