Rejection of a comprehensive BAföG reform (recommendation)

The Bundestag dealt with a proposal from the ALLIANCE 90/THE GREENS parliamentary group for a fundamental reform of the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG). The aim of the project was to adapt training funding to changing realities of life and to expand financial support for students and trainees. The application provided for various measures, including an increase in the requirement rates to the level of citizen's money, an adjustment of the flat rate for housing costs and the introduction of additional monthly support for training-related expenses. In addition, parents' income allowances should be increased and the application process should be simplified through greater digitalization. As justification, the Green parliamentary group referred to the increased cost of living and the falling number of BAföG recipients. In their opinion, BAföG is increasingly no longer living up to its claim of ensuring equal educational opportunities regardless of social background. The proposed changes should therefore both strengthen social participation in the education sector and reduce bureaucratic obstacles. There was a recommendation for the application from the Committee for Research, Technology, Space and Technology Assessment, which recommended rejection. This recommendation for a resolution was voted on by name. The recommendation was approved with 442 yes votes to 141 no votes. There were no abstentions. The Bundestag thus rejected the motion “Make education affordable – BAföG reform now”.

Vote breakdown