Germany’s Minister for Labour and Social Affairs, Bärbel Bas, has expressed skepticism regarding the timely implementation of proposals stemming from the planned Pension Commission, suggesting substantial changes may not materialize before the next federal election.
Speaking to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung, Minister Bas outlined that the commission, slated to begin work in early 2026 and present findings in 2027, is focused on long-term solutions extending beyond the current legislative period. This contrasts with the stated desire of CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who recently advocated for accelerating discussions and progress related to the commission’s work given pressing demographic challenges. While the government recently secured the current pension level until 2031, fueling calls for broader reform, Bas indicated initial policy directions would be set this autumn, but final decisions are unlikely before a potential change in government.
Regarding welfare reforms, Bas announced plans to present legislation this fall addressing immediate priorities such as participation requirements and temporary allowances. However, she cautioned that more significant changes designed to incentivize employment through revised benefit calculations would require approval from the Federal Council, delaying their implementation.
Bas also addressed ongoing debates concerning the level of basic welfare payments, referencing court rulings that guarantee a minimum standard of living. This positions her in opposition to suggestions from CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann regarding substantial benefit reductions for those perceived as avoiding work – a proposal facing legal challenges.
Looking ahead to the Social State Commission, which is scheduled to conclude its work by the end of the year, Bas urged realistic expectations. The commission’s focus, she explained, will primarily be on streamlining processes, simplifying access to services and reducing bureaucratic hurdles-ambitious goals in themselves.
Finally, Minister Bas reiterated her long-held criticism of public sector pensions, noting a disparity between declining pension levels and comparatively stable public sector pension benefits. She suggested limiting the full benefits of public service pensions to security forces as a matter of fairness.
