After a Lengthly Struggle, the Traffic Light Coalition Passes the Budget
Berlin’s New Government Clears the First Hurdle, But the Work is Not Over
After months of negotiations, the new governing coalition in Berlin has finally passed its first budget. The so-called traffic light coalition, made up of the Social Democrats (SPD), the Greens, and the Free Democrats (FDP), had to overcome significant hurdles to reach an agreement.
The budget, which amounts to €127 billion for 2023, includes a number of key measures. These include:
* €3.5 billion in new funding for schools and childcare
* €2 billion in additional funding for public transport
* €1 billion in new investments in affordable housing
The budget also includes a number of tax cuts, including a reduction in the corporate tax rate from 15% to 14%.
The passage of the budget is a significant victory for the traffic light coalition. It shows that the three parties are able to work together to find common ground. However, the work is not over. The coalition will now have to implement the budget and ensure that the money is spent wisely.
Challenges Ahead
The traffic light coalition faces a number of challenges in the coming months. These include:
* The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic
* The war in Ukraine
* The rising cost of living
The coalition will need to work together closely to address these challenges and ensure that Berlin remains a vibrant and prosperous city.
Conclusion
The passage of the budget is a positive step for Berlin. The budget includes a number of important measures that will benefit the city’s residents. However, the coalition faces a number of challenges in the coming months. It will need to work together closely to address these challenges and ensure that Berlin remains a vibrant and prosperous city.
Kind regards
E. Thompson
