German coalition: Debate over nursing care reform continues despite low approval ratings

Despite poor polling numbers, the German federal government is sticking to its reform agenda. The governing coalition is concerned about events in Saxony-Anhalt related to the AfD and is pressing ahead with its nursing care reform debate. The reform aims to address the long-term financial sustainability of Germany's nursing care insurance system, which faces mounting pressure from an aging population. Various models are being discussed, including changes to contribution rates and the distribution of costs between employers and employees. Critics within and outside the coalition argue the proposed changes are insufficient or poorly targeted. The debate reflects broader tensions within the governing coalition over economic and social policy priorities. The issue of nursing care reform has been on the political agenda for years. Germany's system covers around 5 million people in need of care, and costs are expected to rise significantly in the coming decades.