Half of the members of the Bundestag with additional income – who else earns more?

Half of the members of the Bundestag with additional income – who else earns more?

Potsdam.In Germany, a new study has revealed that almost half of all members of the Bundestag earn additional income. This information comes from an analysis of the Bundestag's published data, carried out by The “Spiegel” and MPs Watch.

The study shows that 337 of a total of 733 MPs declared at least one form of additional income. This additional income comes, among other things, from activities beyond the mandate, company investments or reimbursement of travel expenses.

Additional income in detail

There are considerable differences within the various factions: in the Union and the FDP, 63 percent and 59 percent of the members stated that they received additional income. In comparison, it is 43 percent for the SPD, 40 percent for the BSW group, 36 percent for the Left, 32 percent for the Greens and only 22 percent for the AfD.

The MPs Act allows such secondary activities despite the already considerable monthly allowance of 11,227 euros. Nevertheless, Sarah Schönewolf from MPs Watch was critical: “It is questionable whether work in the Bundestag is still the top priority for some MPs with lucrative second jobs.” A worrying signal for political independence and focus on the interests of voters.

Members of Parliament are also required to accurately report their additional income from an amount of 1,000 euros per month or 3,000 euros annually. This information is continuously updated on the Bundestag's official website.

The results of the study also show that Brandenburg's members of the Bundestag are not among the top earners compared to their colleagues from other federal states. Some, like Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) and Christian Görke (Left), have not reported any additional income at all.

A fundamental requirement for transparency is addressed by this survey. While high additional income can create a potential conflict of interest, it is crucial that voters are informed about the financial circumstances of their representatives. The reporting on the topic illustrates how important it remains to maintain a clear separation between political responsibility and financial interests.

The additional income examined not only reflects the diversity of earning potential for MPs, but also raises questions about the priorities and loyalties of decision-makers in parliament.