Matthias Jendricke, the District Administrator of Nordhausen in Thuringia, has implemented a controversial model: he sends enforcement staff to welfare recipients to personally urge them to take up work. According to the Süddeutsche Zeitung, Jendricke reports a positive assessment after the first round of visits.
This initiative follows a heated nationwide debate about the Bürgergeld (citizen's income). Critics demand stricter sanctions and more pressure on the unemployed, while supporters of the existing system advocate for qualification and placement. Jendricke is among those who favor a tougher approach.
The District Administrator emphasized that personal conversations on-site are often more effective than written requests. The enforcement staff not only apply pressure but also offer concrete assistance, such as job placement or clarifying obstacles. Jendricke did not provide details on the results of the first round.
