Majority in Germany Oppose Abolishing "Rente mit 63" Pension Scheme

A significant majority of Germans oppose the proposed abolition of the "Rente mit 63," a retirement scheme that allows individuals to retire without penalty after 45 years of contributions. An Insa poll conducted for "Bild am Sonntag" found that 68% of respondents reject the plan, while only 24% support it. The survey also revealed the personal relevance of this early retirement option, with 56% of those polled indicating they plan to use or have already used it.

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The abolition of the 'Rente mit 63' – which is factually only available at 64.5 years anyway – is part of the comprehensive overall concept of a pension commission.

The "Rente mit 63," which is currently accessible at age 64.5 due to gradual increases, is part of a broader pension reform concept being considered by a commission. The government's coalition aims to implement these proposals. The poll also highlighted public skepticism towards planned social security contributions on mini-jobs, with 61% opposing the idea. Overall, 77% of Germans are dissatisfied with the current government's pension policy, compared to only 16% who are satisfied.

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A clear majority of people in Germany are against the abolition of the so-called 'Rente mit 63'.

Union representatives have voiced strong opposition to the government's plan to phase out the "Rente mit 63." Frank Werneke, head of the Verdi union, argued that abolishing this option disregards the lifetime achievements of affected individuals. Christiane Benner of IG Metall defended the policy as fair, suggesting that critics should experience the demanding physical labor many undertake for 45 years. DGB board member Anja Piel emphasized that long-serving workers deserve a good pension without deductions, stating they should not be "squeezed like a lemon" at the end of their careers.

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We reject the abolition of the penalty-free pension after 45 years of contributions.