Germany Should Not Discriminate Against Native Workers

'(3) No person shall be favoured or disfavoured because of sex, parentage, race, language, homeland and origin, ...' ~ The Basic Law, Article 3, Paragraph 3

From The European Conservative

By Marija Delova

I’m a migrant, but even I know that special tax breaks for immigrants are unfair.

The German government’s latest brainwave—to offer tax breaks to newly-arrived foreign skilled workers—sounds like something from a bad sitcom, where the new guy at work gets a corner office and a company car while everyone else is stuck in cubicles. The proposal isn’t just unfair; it’s a constitutional trainwreck waiting to happen.

The plan allows foreign workers to enjoy a portion of their gross salary tax-free over their first three years (30% the first year, then 20%, then 10%). Julia Klöckner of the CDU nailed it when she called this policy “Inländer-Diskriminierung” (discrimination against native workers). Imagine telling your hard-working neighbour their taxes are funding a cushy deal for someone who just moved in from abroad. That’s not just bad policy; it’s a surefire way to stoke resentment and division.

Germany’s Basic Law (the German constitution) is clear: Article 3 guarantees equality before the law. This latest government proposal is crying out for a lawsuit, and it will surely end up in court before long if the government pushes ahead with it. Any policy that doles out financial perks based on nationality is skating on thin constitutional ice. If this goes to court, it’s likely to be struck down faster than you can say “Verfassungsgericht.”

The perception of inequality is a powerful thing. Yasmin Fahimi from the DGB (Deutsche Gewerkschaftsbund—the German Trade Union Confederation) has warned that this plan could ignite societal tensions, and she’s right. When people see their new colleagues getting a free pass on taxes, it doesn’t just hurt their wallets; it hurts their sense of justice. Policies that create an “us against them” mentality are a fast track to social unrest. In a time when unity is more important than ever, this proposal is like throwing a lit match into a powder keg.

Proponents argue that these tax breaks are needed to attract skilled labour. But as Labor Minister Hubertus Heil points out, tax policy is not a magic bullet. A better solution might include cutting some of Germany’s copious red tape and making it a more attractive place to work and live for everyone, not just immigrants.

As a migrant myself, I’ve experienced the challenges of settling into a new country. I understand the need for supportive policies, but they must be fair. Instead of creating a system that alienates domestic workers, let’s focus on policies that benefit everyone. Simplifying the tax code and reducing regulatory burdens can attract talent without discriminating. This isn’t rocket science; it’s basic fairness. Targeted programs to address shortages in critical industries can support both German and foreign workers. That way, everyone has an equal shot at contributing to and benefiting from Germany’s economic growth.

The proposal to give special tax breaks to foreign skilled workers is fraught with issues. It’s unfair, potentially unconstitutional, and likely ineffective. Germany needs policies that promote fairness and equality, fostering a strong, cohesive society, and a robust economy. In a world where trust in government and social cohesion are more important than ever, let’s pursue policies that unite rather than divide. By focusing on fair and equitable solutions, Germany can build a brighter future for all its workers—no corner offices or company cars required.

Speak up for fairness. Encourage your representatives to pursue policies that promote equality and unity. Together, we can ensure a prosperous and just future for everyone in Germany. This isn’t just about fixing a labour shortage; it’s about doing it in the right way. And right now, this proposal is as useless as a screen door on a submarine.