Arbeitsbeschaffungsmaßnahmen

Arbeitsbeschaffungsmaßnahmen (ABM) is a term used in German labor market policy referring to government-sponsored programs designed to create or preserve employment, particularly for long-term unemployed.

ABMs are a form of active labor market policy that finances publicly useful work and sometimes includes on-the-job training or rehabilitation components. The aim is to reduce unemployment, maintain labor market attachment, and support public or nonprofit sectors by providing temporary employment opportunities during downturns or structural transitions.

Implementation and scope: ABMs are typically administered by the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) in collaboration with municipalities, public institutions, and non-profit organizations. Participants are usually job seekers who meet eligibility criteria, notably long-term or structurally unemployed. Projects often involve public-interest tasks such as maintenance of infrastructure, environmental conservation, or community services. Duration varies, commonly ranging from a few weeks to several months, and participation may be voluntary or tied to eligibility for other benefits.

Impact and debate: Supporters argue ABMs help prevent skill erosion, integrate participants back into regular employment, and address short-term public needs. Critics point to high cost, limited long-term impact on employability, potential displacement of regular workers, and the risk of creating dependence on public subsidy rather than sustainable careers. Over time, many countries including Germany placed ABMs within broader reforms of active labor market policy, emphasizing targeting, evaluation, and integration with training and job placement services.

See also: unemployment insurance, active labor market policy, public works, labor market reform.