Bishop Beate Hofmann Criticizes German Government Over Poverty and Care Reform

Beate Hofmann, bishop of the Evangelical Church of Kurhessen‑Waldeck and chair of the board of the Evangelical Diakonie, warned that poverty in Germany “is not a scandal”. She called for higher taxation of wealth to reduce social inequality and expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government's restructuring of the welfare state.

Hofmann highlighted the upcoming care reform, saying it could have existential consequences for families caring for disabled children and the elderly. She warned that cuts to benefits for low‑grade care and reduced support for caring relatives could force many into institutional care, increasing costs overall. The reform, slated for discussion this autumn, is also on the agenda of Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU). Hofmann criticised recent measures such as reductions in health‑insurance spending and pension reforms, arguing they undermine social balance.