German social organizations warn of welfare cuts in 2027 budget

Social welfare organizations and unions in Germany are warning against potential budget cuts in the 2027 federal budget. A coalition including the Sozialverband Deutschland, the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), the Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband, and religious services such as Caritas and Diakonie has appealed for sufficient funding for social services, describing them as the ‘backbone of our democracy.’

As Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil introduces the cabinet-approved 2027 budget draft, which proposes expenditures of 555.4 billion euros, concerns are rising regarding the prioritization of military spending. German military expenditures are projected to rise from 82.7 billion euros this year to 183.7 billion euros by 2030. Organizations warn that cuts to pension and health insurance subsidies, housing allowance, and parental allowance must be prevented.

In response to these fiscal concerns, Die Linke has organized a social conference in Dresden on September 19, 2026, to discuss poverty, social security, and wealth taxation. Additionally, a social protest is scheduled for September 24, 2026, in Dresden to demonstrate against perceived attacks on the social state and labor rights.