Central European governments announce new social welfare benefits

Central European governments are introducing new social welfare measures aimed at families and informal caregivers.

In the Czech Republic, new benefits for informal caregivers are set to expand in 2027. These measures aim to support the approximately 2.5 million adults who care for sick or disabled relatives. Key changes include adjustments to pension calculations, where periods of informal care can be counted toward insurance periods to help ensure eligibility for retirement pensions.

In Slovakia, Minister of Labour Erik Tomáš has announced a package of social reforms starting in January. Significant changes include increasing the childbirth allowance (kočíkovné) to 1,000 euros for the first four children. The package also includes income tax exemptions for single fathers and mothers who have raised four or more children, as part of a broader effort to address demographic challenges and support vulnerable groups.