In 2024, the German government is planning to significantly cut financial support provided to regions for the reception and integration of refugees, including Ukrainians.
This decision was announced based on information from Reuters, which cites two sources within the German government.
The reduction in budgetary funds means that the German government will allocate no more than 1.7 billion euros for refugee reception-related assistance. Compared to the previous year, where the amount was 3.75 billion euros, this is a substantial decrease.
The government also intends to cease its funding for programs related to refugee integration and care. This decision was made as part of measures to reduce budgetary expenses due to rising inflation.
It’s worth noting that after the full-scale invasion of Russia into Ukraine, more than a million Ukrainians moved to Germany. This placed a significant burden on cities and municipalities in the country, which provide support to refugees. Consequently, 16 German states have demanded increased financial assistance from the federal government to cover refugee expenses in the coming year.
Regarding the size of assistance in 2024, the increase in financial aid for citizens is scheduled for January 1, 2024. If the German authorities do not change their decision regarding funding for Ukrainian refugees, these payments will continue for people from Ukraine who have been granted temporary protection.
Due to inflation, the standard Bürgergeld benefit rates will be increased by 12.2%. The overall financial assistance amounts will be as follows:
- 563 euros for an individual;
- 506 euros for spouses or partners in civil partnerships;
- 471 euros for children aged 14 to 17;
- 390 euros for children aged 6 to 13;
- 357 euros for children up to 5 years old, inclusive.
