A leading figure within the German Green Party has questioned the efficacy of the “mothers’ pension” as a tool for achieving greater gender equality. Franziska Brantner, co-chair of the Green Party, expressed skepticism regarding the scheme’s impact, stating that it provides an average of only 20 euros per month for women.
Brantner voiced concerns about the coalition government’s focus, arguing it overlooks a more pressing issue: the prevalence of female poverty in old age. She emphasized that the real challenge lies in addressing the situation of women who have worked and raised families throughout their lives, yet find themselves reliant on basic social assistance in retirement.
“It’s unfair” Brantner stated in an interview with Bavarian media outlets. “That’s where we need to intervene – and we could be doing it immediately. But it’s not happening”. She suggested that focusing on preventing old-age poverty among women should be a priority over measures like the mothers’ pension.