Federal Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) stated that pension structural reforms could reveal potential areas for savings. However, she stressed that any changes to the current pension system, particularly those related to retiring at age 63, must prioritize principles of social fairness.
Speaking to RTL and ntv on Friday, the SPD politician pointed to the pension commission, which is scheduled to present its findings in June. Bas argued that because people are all living longer, the system must be secured, especially for the young generation just beginning their careers.
Addressing the longevity challenge, Bas highlighted the need to consider income disparity when designing retirement systems. She noted that life expectancy has even decreased for lower-income earners. Nevertheless, she pointed out that since people from higher-income brackets are currently utilizing the pension option at age 63, this component must also be taken into account when evaluating reforms. According to Bas, if a comprehensive package of changes emerges, it would certainly be subject to public and political debate.