Job centres must now report unemployed parents to welfare services
A new rule now requires job centres to report unemployed parents to youth welfare services if their children are minors. The government claims the measure will support families and safeguard children’s well-being. Critics, however, have labelled it a form of coercion. Under the updated policy, parents receiving basic security benefits face stricter oversight. Those who repeatedly miss job centre appointments risk benefit sanctions. If their children are under 18, the job centre must also notify youth services. The government insists the change will help struggling families. Officials argue that early intervention by youth services can prevent neglect or hardship. But opposition has been swift. The Left Party condemned the rule as a 'scandal' and a 'threat scenario.' They claim it unfairly pressures vulnerable parents into compliance. Federal Minister for Labour and Social Affairs Bärbel Bas, in office since January 2026, has not publicly commented on who initially proposed the adjustment. The policy ties benefit sanctions to mandatory reporting for parents of minors. Authorities say it will improve child protection and family support. Meanwhile, opponents warn it could push already struggling households into deeper difficulty.
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