Nachhaltige Arbeitsmarktintegration und mehr soziale Teilhabe durch das neue Bürgergeld ?

Since its introduction 17 years ago, Germany’s basic income support scheme known as Hartz IV has been accompanied by a normative discussion about the right balance between its core principles of enabling (Fördern) and demanding (Fordern). The new federal government plans to renew the basic security system with the introduction of the so-called citizens’ allowance. This article discusses the reform project outlined in the coalition agreement in the light of central findings from the fields of international labour market and social policy research. The article initially examines the planned shift in focus from work-first to a stronger orientation towards sustainable labour market integration via the path of qualification. Following a discussion on the envisaged reorientation of the counselling processes in German job centres, the authors reflect upon possible ways and prerequisites of advancing the social inclusion of benefit ­recipients.