A senior figure within the parliamentary group of the Social Democratic Party has indicated strong support for enshrining a pension level of 48 percent until 2031, emphasizing the need for clear and dependable parameters. Speaking to RTL and ntv, Mathias Middelberg stated that the method of financing this commitment remains a matter for the ruling coalition to determine in the coming months.
He acknowledged that these decisions would be fundamental and extensive, requiring potentially difficult reforms. Middelberg pointed to past governmental actions, specifically referencing the first administration of Angela Merkel (CDU) and then-Labour and Social Affairs Minister Franz Müntefering (SPD), as evidence of the possibility of enacting significant changes to the pension system, including previously contentious measures like extending the working lifetime.
Middelberg highlighted the current financial strain on the pension system, noting that already one in four euros from the federal budget flows as subsidies into the pension fund. He stressed that the system is no longer capable of self-sufficiency and cautioned against placing the increasing burden of future pension obligations solely on younger generations. This necessitates a critical evaluation of the system and potential fundamental revisions.
Regarding a proposal from Labour Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) suggesting contributions from civil servants, parliamentarians and the self-employed into the pension insurance system, Middelberg did not categorically dismiss the idea. While he deemed all options worthy of discussion, he cautioned that any new contributors would inevitably accrue their own claims against the pension insurance fund, a factor that must be considered when assessing the proposal’s true effectiveness. He underscored that the solution isn’s likely to be immediate.
