Welfare programs are also a strong reason for Africans to immigrate to rich countries, which close their borders very precisely not to let foreigners gain access to welfare. Welfare and borders are the same thing: restrictions to freedom.
Welfare payments are the primary reason for people from the third world nations to immigrate to Western countries. For example, take the case of Afghan migrants. The richest country in the world (Qatar) is nearer to Afghanistan when compered to the European nations. Qatar is also culturally similar to Afghanistan. But still, Afghan migrants prefer Europe. The reason - welfare payments.
Bismarck was no fascist. That was not invented yet.... And old age pension with 65 when most died before the age of 60 well, that's not expensive is it?
Not everyone is allowed to access welfare. Immigrants should work and if they loose their job they are kicked out again. Asylumseekers who are deemed legal are given some kind of welfare. Only when the situation is too dangerous and the refugee can't return only then an asylumseeker is allowed to request welfare.