Abazović Criticizes Child Allowance Cuts to Fund Politicians

Dritan Abazović, the leader of the Građanski pokret URA, has publicly criticized government proposals to reduce child allowance funding in favour of political party financing. In a recent podcast, he stated that the government is prioritizing the needs of politicians over children, saying it “takes from children to feed and drink the majority’s representatives.”

Abazović was responding to the recent initiative proposed by his party to increase child benefits. He contrasted this with a counterproposal from the Party of European Socialists (PES), which suggested a reduction in funding for political parties. He remarked, “Remove that one euro from the child allowance and give it to the majority’s representatives, so they can eat and drink,” while expressing support for PES’s proposal.

Budget Priorities Under Scrutiny

The URA leader highlighted discrepancies in the national budget for 2025, where €25 million has been allocated for a government plane and €20 million for consulting services. He emphasized that these funds could be redirected to increase child allowances, which he believes are currently insufficient.

According to Abazović, political parties receive approximately €15 million annually. He argued that halving this amount could save around €7.5 million, but pointed out that to double the current child allowance, an expenditure of €55 million is necessary. He remarked, “The PES proposal means an increase of only €3.5. Let all parents know what the ‘experts’ are proposing,” underscoring the inadequacy of the suggested increase.

Abazović further noted that citizens have jokingly proposed a donation of one euro for the politicians who cannot manage to feed themselves. He called for a more substantial increase in child benefits, advocating for at least €30, citing that prices have doubled in the last three years.

This debate over child allowances and political funding reflects broader concerns about government spending priorities and the welfare of families. As discussions continue, the impact on children’s well-being remains a critical point of contention within the political landscape.