Budget Analysis for 2026 Reveals Lack of Strategic Planning by Political Parties Black and Red

The coalition government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz since May 6, 2025, has presented its draft federal budget for 2026. However, according to Dr. Sebastian Schafer, spokesperson for budget policy, the budget does not deliver on the promise of providing planning security and transparency, as initially pledged by the coalition.

The budget appears to create new gaps in vital areas such as social infrastructure, affordable energy, public transport, and affordable housing. It is evident that targeted investments in these sectors are not prioritised, leading to concerns about the future of these essential services.

Moreover, the budget reveals a shift of programs to special funds, thereby restricting parliamentary control. This move has raised questions about the accountability and transparency of the government's spending decisions.

The budget also shows savings in areas like buses, trains, and the further development of electromobility. This decision could potentially delay the much-needed transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly public transport system.

The budget's failure to prioritise investments in critical sectors, coupled with the continued sparing of the super-rich and crisis winners, has created uncertainty and mistrust among the public. Critics argue that the budget undermines the promise of a modern state, including digitalisation, and fails to address central future questions, such as climate change and economic justice.

Furthermore, the budget does not impose a limit on defense spending and abolishes important reports. This move has raised concerns about the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in its spending decisions.

The budget also shows a gap of 172 billion euros, which is almost 20 percent more than previously announced. This significant discrepancy has raised questions about the government's financial management and planning. The record debt of 851 billion euros by 2029 is not accompanied by a solid financial plan, leading to concerns about the sustainability of the country's economic future.

In conclusion, the 2026 federal budget proposal has been met with criticism for its lack of transparency, planning, and investment in critical sectors. The government is urged to reconsider its approach and prioritise investments that advance society, while cutting ineffective spending and addressing the central questions of the future, such as climate change and economic justice. A constitutional reform of the debt brake and a more honest future budget, fairly financed, climate-friendly, and fair, are needed to regain the trust of the public.