There is a dispute within the federal government about funding for defense and the welfare state. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has strictly rejected social cuts and the dismantling of workers' rights.
The CDU and CSU wanted to approach pensions by raising the retirement age. Some wanted to limit benefits in the event of illness and long-term care. The German Federation of Trade Unions (DGB) also warned of cuts in social benefits. The debt brake will be in place in 2024 – without any ifs or buts.