Söder argued that recipients should not be able to refuse reasonable job offers without facing reductions in benefits, speaking to the “Handelsblatt” newspaper He suggested a re-evaluation of benefit levels, including allowances for housing and the permissible amount of personal savings
Turning to the long-term security of retirees, Söder expressed openness to large-scale pension reform He supports the concept of an “active pension” – allowing pensioners to work with fewer restrictions – and is also proposing the introduction of a fully funded, capital-covered pillar within the existing pension system He believes this is essential to provide a clearer outlook for younger generations
Söder also indicated a willingness to consider linking the retirement age to life expectancy, while acknowledging the diverse realities across the population He stressed the importance of flexible regulations rather than rigid rules in this regard The CSU will evaluate any proposals for raising the retirement age carefully
Prioritizing broader healthcare reforms, Söder highlighted the potential for improvements within Germany’s health and care insurance systems He specifically pointed to opportunities through digital data exchange and questioned the necessity of the large number of existing health insurance funds Automation within these funds and potential mergers represent a promising starting point, he stated, with a considerable amount of unrealized potential
