Stranka: Zakaj se AfD na vzhodu zanaša na "svetrinca"

Ostdeutsche CDU-Landeschefs warnen vor ungebremstem Strukturwandel The three CDU state premiers from eastern Germany, Mario Voigt of Thuringia, Sven Schulze of Saxony-Anhalt, and Michael Kretschmer of Saxony, have issued a joint statement warning that social reforms could have severe consequences in the east. They argue that changes to the pension system and healthcare costs are affecting residents more directly than in western regions. The ministers emphasize that the federal government must take into account the specific challenges faced by eastern Germans when implementing national policies. The ministers are preparing to present their demands ahead of upcoming elections in Saxony-Anhalt, which are scheduled for September. According to reports, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party currently leads in the polls there, raising concerns about the political landscape. The CDU leaders stress that the current situation requires immediate attention, particularly regarding the future of pensions and long-term care. The group has called for the preservation of the unrestricted pension after 45 years of contributions. They argue that many East Germans have not had the opportunity to build up sufficient private savings due to historical economic conditions. As a result, the statutory pension often serves as the sole pillar of retirement security. The ministers claim that any change in the social security system affects the eastern population disproportionately, with changes appearing to move forward without adequate consideration. They also highlight the issue of affordability in long-term care, noting that rising costs are placing additional strain on families. The proposed reforms would increase the individual share of expenses, which they believe could lead to financial hardship for many. Instead, they advocate for measures that consider personal ability to pay, ensuring that burdens remain manageable and predictable for affected individuals. The CDU leaders insist that the eastern states should be included early in the process of shaping national reforms. They argue that the unique circumstances of the east require tailored solutions, rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. Their call for greater inclusion reflects broader concerns about regional disparities within Germany, especially in light of ongoing debates over economic policy and social welfare. The situation underscores the growing divide between eastern and western Germany, with the former facing distinct socio-economic pressures. While the CDU seeks to address these issues through collaboration, the political climate suggests that such efforts may face significant challenges. With the AfD gaining traction in key areas, the stakes for the upcoming election are high, and the outcome could influence the direction of national policy for years to come.