AfD leader Alice Weidel claims Romanian migrants exploit German social systems

Alice Weidel, co-president of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has sparked controversy by claiming that an increasing number of migrants from Romania are “plundering” the German social system. In a post on X, Weidel cited benefits such as child allowances, basic income support, and medical care as areas of concern. She referenced a report from Magdeburg, where annual expenditures related to Romanian citizens rose from approximately 140,000 euros in 2013 to over three million euros projected for 2025.

The rise in spending coincides with a significant increase in the Romanian population in Magdeburg, which grew from nearly 160 to almost 3,000 residents. Discussions regarding the European definition of an employee suggest that individuals working limited hours may still qualify for certain social supports.

Romanian politicians have reacted strongly to the allegations. Dominic Fritz of the USR party accused Weidel of insulting an entire population, noting that most Romanians in Germany contribute significantly to the economy. PNL member Robert Sighiartău also rejected the claims, stating that Romanians are not plundering Germany and that any instances of fraud should be investigated individually rather than generalizing an entire community. There are an estimated 900,000 Romanian citizens living in Germany, many of whom work in sectors such as healthcare, construction, and agriculture.