The president of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), Marcel Fratzscher, is advocating for a re-evaluation of the distribution of societal obligations between younger and older generations.
In an interview, Fratzscher proposed the implementation of a mandatory social year for all retirees, suggesting increased civic engagement from seniors, particularly in the social sector and potentially in national defense. He highlighted the Bundeswehr (German armed forces) as an area where the technical skills of many retirees – particularly those with prior military training – could be valuable assets.
Fratzscher expressed concern that current debates surrounding the reintroduction of compulsory military service often disproportionately focus on placing the burden of solutions on young adults. He argued that younger generations are already facing significant pressures from increasing social security contributions and the consequences of climate change.
He emphasized the need for greater solidarity from older generations toward the younger, calling for a renegotiation of what he termed a “new generational contract” for Germany – a framework that equitably distributes responsibilities and addresses the challenges facing the nation.