Germany was preparing controversial reforms for the mini-job system, provoking a strong reaction from the business environment and trade unions.

Germany is on the brink of controversial social and economic reforms, targeting the pension system and minijobs, forms of employment used by millions of people. The proposals from the Pension Commission, which suggest eliminating the special status of minijobs, have sparked strong discontent from the German Trade Association (HDE) and the unions.

The director of HDE, Stefan Genth, warns that eliminating minijobs will lead to the destruction of hundreds of thousands of jobs in retail, affecting employees who cannot work full-time for various reasons. Currently, minijobs allow earnings of up to 603 euros per month without income tax, but the proposals could change this.

Approximately 800,000 retail employees are affected. Alongside minijobs, the reforms include raising the retirement age and investing in the capital market. The Verdi union supports the elimination of minijobs, arguing that they contribute to poverty among retirees.