Left Party leader demands bold stimulus to rescue Germany's stagnant economy
Ines Schwerdtner, leader of the Left Party, has called for a sweeping economic stimulus plan to modernise Germany’s economy. She claims the current government lacks vision and has left ordinary people struggling while far-right groups exploit public frustration. Schwerdtner’s proposals include a one-off €150 'energy crisis payment', a cut in electricity taxes, and the return of the €9 monthly public transport ticket. To fund these measures, she backs a 'windfall tax' on oil and gas firms, arguing their profits should support relief efforts.
She also wants a 12% wealth tax on assets exceeding €1 billion, dismissing fears it would weaken Germany’s economic competitiveness. The existing €500 billion infrastructure fund, she argues, is insufficient and mostly spent on repairs rather than real modernisation. Her criticism extends to Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s coalition, which she accuses of hiding budget shortfalls behind special funds. Schwerdtner insists the debt brake should be suspended to free up money for large-scale investment. The Left Party aims to redirect public anger into organised protests and what they call 'constructive outlets' for change.
The proposals target both immediate relief and long-term economic reform. Schwerdtner’s plan relies on higher taxes for the ultra-rich and energy companies to pay for public support measures. If adopted, the changes would mark a shift in how Germany funds social and infrastructure projects.
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