Saxony's leader demands changes to federal pension and care reforms

Saxony's Minister-President Michael Kretschmer has reiterated his strong call for modifications to the federal government's planned reforms for pensions and long-term care. Kretschmer, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), stated in Dresden and on the platform X that individuals who have worked for decades should not be penalized in their old age due to lower wages in the 1990s or periods of unemployment.

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Anyone who has worked for decades must not be punished in old age for having worked for significantly lower wages in the 90s or having had to go through periods of unemployment.

Kretschmer specifically highlighted the situation of people in East Germany, arguing that the current federal plans do not adequately consider their circumstances. He pointed out that four to five million pensioners in the East live on an average of 1,300 to 1,500 euros per month, while nursing home co-payments can exceed 3,000 euros. "These are people whose working lives after reunification were often marked by breaks, lower wages, and unemployment," Kretschmer emphasized, stating that this reality cannot be ignored.

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To this day, I have not heard a single convincing argument that seriously considers the situation of people in East Germany. We are talking about four to five million pensioners who live on an average of 1,300 to 1,500 euros per month, with co-payments for a nursing home of at least 3,000 euros.

The Saxon leader believes it is a mistake to view pension reform in isolation. "What ultimately remains for people after contributions to health and long-term care insurance is crucial. Therefore, we finally need a comprehensive concept for pensions and care," he asserted. Kretschmer has previously threatened to block the federal government's pension plans in the Bundesrat (Federal Council), indicating that Saxony will not approve the reforms without significant changes.

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It is crucial what actually remains for people after contributions for health and long-term care insurance. Therefore, we finally need a comprehensive concept for pensions and care.

"And if other states also do not agree, then there will be no such pension and care reform," Kretschmer warned, underscoring his commitment to ensuring that the reforms address the specific needs and historical context of East German residents. The pushback from Saxony signals potential challenges for the federal government in implementing its proposed changes to the pension and care systems.

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And if other states also do not agree, then there will be no such pension and care reform.