The Number of Pensioners on the Brink of Poverty is Growing in Germany
World
The number of pensioners at risk of poverty in Germany continues to rise. As of 2024, this figure has reached 3.54 million people, accounting for 19.6% of the total pensioner population. These statistics, provided by the Federal Statistical Office, were made public by the Bundestag faction of the left-populist party "Sarah Wagenknecht Alliance."
According to RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland, this number has increased by 300,000 people or 1.2% compared to the previous year. The risk of poverty is growing not only among pensioners but also among the general population. The proportion of people experiencing financial difficulties has risen by 1.1 percentage points, reaching 15.5%.
According to German law, a person is considered at risk of poverty if their income is less than 60% of the average wage. In 2024, this threshold was set at €1,378 per month for an individual and €2,893 for a family of two pensioners with two children.
Germany's pension system has been facing serious challenges for years. Left-populist party leader Sarah Wagenknecht called it a "mega-problem" and criticized the ruling Social Democrats’ pension policies. She proposed implementing an Austrian-style pension system, where civil servants and self-employed individuals would also be required to contribute to the pension fund.
Wagenknecht's proposals are expected to spark new debates about social inequality in Germany. Experts emphasize the need for pension system reforms, as the increasing number of elderly people continues to put pressure on social security resources.
According to German law, a person is considered at risk of poverty if their income is less than 60% of the average wage. In 2024, this threshold was set at €1,378 per month for an individual and €2,893 for a family of two pensioners with two children.
Germany's pension system has been facing serious challenges for years. Left-populist party leader Sarah Wagenknecht called it a "mega-problem" and criticized the ruling Social Democrats’ pension policies. She proposed implementing an Austrian-style pension system, where civil servants and self-employed individuals would also be required to contribute to the pension fund.
Wagenknecht's proposals are expected to spark new debates about social inequality in Germany. Experts emphasize the need for pension system reforms, as the increasing number of elderly people continues to put pressure on social security resources.
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