Elderly women face significant risks of impoverishment, with approximately 2.1 million falling into this category. - Elderly women stand at a higher risk of falling into poverty
Germany's Old-Age Poverty Disproportionately Affects Women as Pension System Undergoes Scrutiny
According to recent statistics, the number of pensioners living in poverty has significantly increased over the last decade. While around two million pensioners were affected in 2005, this figure skyrocketed to 3.4 million in the most recent data.
Sahra Wagenknecht, Chairwoman of the Alliance Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW), attributes this trend to the shortcomings of Germany's pension system, particularly its unfavorable treatment of women. Wagenknecht advocates for a transition to the Austrian pension model, which involves a broader contribution base for the pension insurance system. Under this proposed reform, professions such as freelancers, civil servants, and politicians would also contribute, enhancing the financial stability of the system.
The goal is to raise the statutory pension level, which could help reduce poverty among elderly individuals, particularly women. Wagenknecht's party demands a minimum pension of 1,500 euros after 40 years of insurance, which is significantly higher than the current average in Germany. In Austria, almost all employed persons contribute to the statutory pension, leading to a higher average pension compared to Germany.
The pension policy reform is one of the government's crucial political projects. Debates surrounding this issue have caused friction within the black-red coalition recently. Labour Minister Barbara Bas (SPD) proposed extending the statutory pension insurance to self-employed and civil servants, with members of the Union expressing disagreement. SPD chairman Lars Klingbeil, appointed as finance minister and deputy chancellor, has previously called for a comprehensive pension system reform.
The issue of old-age poverty, particularly among women, remains a pressing concern as the new federal government works towards finding a sustainable solution. By broadening the contribution base and increasing financial stability, the pension system could potentially offer more equitable retirement benefits for all.
- In light of the increased number of elderly individuals living in poverty, particularly women, there's a growing call for vocational training to equip them with skills for alternative income sources, such as self-employment in the health-and-wellness or science sectors, to secure their financial stability during retirement.
- Recognizing the disproportionate impact of old-age poverty on women, some policy advocates suggest implementing vocational training programs specifically tailored for women, focusing on sectors like women's health and business management, to empower them in the workforce and build a more secure future.
- As the government pursues pension policy reforms, experts argue that an inclusive approach is essential. This could involve investing in science and technology to develop aging-friendly solutions and vocational training programs for various sectors, fostering both employment opportunities and self-sufficiency among elderly individuals, regardless of gender.
