Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs of Germany

The government is responsible for creating a strong framework for more jobs, promoting social inclusion and maintaining stable social security systems. These tasks touch upon several areas of politics. The Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs seeks to identify interministerial solutions and liaises with the relevant Länder and municipalities when implementing its measures. Vital to the success of its social policies is close cooperation between BMAS and the Committee on Labour and Social Affairs, the primary parliamentary decision-making body.

Creating jobs with full social security coverage crucially requires a prospering economy. Without a flourishing private sector there can be no effective welfare state. We feel committed to shaping an economy that works in the best interest of the people. Business is not an end unto itself.

Economic, labour and social policy must be seen in relation to each other, also at the European level. Since growth must be accompanied by social protection, social policy remains a core element of the Lisbon Strategy. We strive to strengthen the social dialogue and civil society participation. If managed prudently, Europe offers enormous opportunities.