Pension Reform

The German government has approved the Altersvorsorgedepot as the new framework for state-supported retirement savings. From January 2027 self-employed people and civil servants will also be eligible. The Riester pension scheme ends at the close of this year.

25 Mwezi wa nne, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Following backlash to his recent comments, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) assured no cuts to statutory pensions at a CDU event. Saxony-Anhalt Premier Sven Schulze (CDU) reiterated demands for pension reform to address East Germany's unique reliance on state pensions.

Unions leader Jens Spahn has warned of a potential government crisis if the pension package fails in parliament. Resistance from the Young Group in the CDU/CSU is reportedly crumbling, but Spahn highlights risks to other policy areas. He expects a majority to form for the compromise proposal.

26 Mwezi wa kumi na moja, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

On November 25, the Senate voted against suspending the pension reform that postpones the legal retirement age to 64. This decision was made within the social security budget project. The measure is likely to be reinstated by the National Assembly in a joint committee scheduled for the same evening.

Maud Bregeon, the 34-year-old deputy from Hauts-de-Seine, returns to her role as spokesperson for the Lecornu II government after a short break. Once a fierce critic of the pension reform suspension, she now backs the government's line while advocating for debate moderation. Her return, unsurprising, mirrors France's recent political instability.

27 Mwezi wa kumi, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

French lawmakers began examining the 2026 social security financing bill on October 27, 2025, amid tensions over suspending the pension reform and drastic savings measures. A government amendment increasing the surtax on large companies was adopted, while the Zucman tax debate was postponed. Discussions are set to be contentious with a projected deficit of 17.5 billion euros.