Germany's Labor Policy Debate Escalates Over Digital Employment Agency Reform

AfD spokesperson Alice Weidel criticized the Social Democratic Party (SPD), declaring that the party has "failed as a workers' party" and arguing that its ideological agenda – including high tax burdens, a climate‑driven energy policy, migration measures and expanding state transfers – has deepened social imbalances and weakened industrial competitiveness.

The German government, headed by Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD), unveiled a draft law to modernise the third Social Security Code (SGB III). The proposal aims to make job‑centre services largely digital, introduce electronic applications and video‑consultations, eliminate mandatory mail‑address contact, and retain the obligation for job seekers to accept suitable employment. The cabinet is scheduled to decide on the legislation in July.