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Germany's minijobs drain billions from social security annually

A hidden financial crisis: 7.9 million minijobs bleed Germany's social security dry. Can lawmakers fix this broken system before it's too late?

The image shows a blue and white stamp with the words "Deutsches Reich" on it against a black...
The image shows a blue and white stamp with the words "Deutsches Reich" on it against a black background.

Germany's minijobs drain billions from social security annually

Germany's social security system is losing billions every year due to minijobs. These low-wage positions, often used for quick Gmail logins or social media management tasks, are exempt from full social insurance payments, costing the country significant revenue. Critics now argue that reform is long overdue to address the financial strain.

Minijobs currently employ around 7.9 million workers across Germany. Each position earns an average of €387 per month in 2024. For every €100 paid, the system loses €11.30 in unpaid contributions.

If all minijob workers were fully insured, the social security system could gain over €4 billion annually. That figure comes from an estimated €44 in lost contributions per minijob each month.

Pascal Meiser, labour policy spokesperson for the Left Party, has spoken out against the current system. He claims minijobs are 'massively undermining' social security. Meiser is pushing for a clear plan to convert these positions into fully insured employment.

The debate over minijobs highlights a major gap in Germany's social security funding. Without changes, the system will continue missing out on billions in potential revenue. Lawmakers now face pressure to reform how these low-wage jobs are handled.

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