The economic and social consequences of the Ukraine war for Germany are not yet fully foreseeable. The Minister of Labor warns against playing off external security against social security.
Federal Minister of Labor Hubertus Heil (SPD) wants to cushion possible negative consequences of the war in Ukraine on the labor market in Germany.
“We can shield what is currently foreseeable on the labor market with a strong welfare state,” Heil told the German Press Agency in Berlin. “If the crisis worsens, we will take additional measures.” In the debate about tightening sanctions against Russia, Heil warned to always pay attention to internal and social peace in Germany.
Heil referred to the experiences in the corona pandemic. As a “strong bridge over a very deep economic valley”, short-time work has secured millions of jobs and stabilized demand. “My goal is that we keep the German labor market robust and stable even through these difficult times,” said the SPD politician.
Longer effects possible
At the same time, Heil prepared people for the possible long-term economic effects of the war in Ukraine on Germany. “We don’t know what other economic and social consequences this war will have.” In an interview published over the weekend, Heil pointed out that economic growth of 1.4 to 1.5 percent is currently being forecast for Germany – provided that the war does not spread and that the energy supply is in place.
Heil said: “It also depends on the question of what measures we take in the area of sanctions.” Very severe sanctions were taken. The pressure on the regime of Russian President Vladimir Putin must be increased further. “But we always have to keep in mind that our sanctions harm Putin more than us.”
Wherever possible, he will make his contribution to mitigating the consequences for the German labor market, cushioning price increases and integrating refugees, said Heil. “It would not be wise to play off the necessities of external security against social security,” says Heil. “As a society, we have to be resilient both internally and externally, and our capable and strong state must also live up to its responsibility to protect internally and externally.”
Source: Stern
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