Axel Börsch‑Supan, an economist and pension specialist, argues that German civil servants should be transferred into the statutory pension scheme. In an interview with the ”Süddeutsche Zeitung”, he explained that this move would help public servants understand how the national pension system works, something they currently miss due to their separate pay regime. Börsch‑Supan also said the policy would address the feeling in society that the special treatment of officials is unfair and that the injustice ought to be ended.
He admits-but insists nonetheless-that, from an economic point of view, this will be a loss. Civil servants tend to live longer, which places a higher burden on the pension fund. Despite the cost, Börsch‑Supan believes it is crucial to eliminate the ongoing unease surrounding the preferential treatment of public officials.
