The German pension after 45 years of contribution payments amounts to about 1,550 euros gross per month, which after deductions leaves about 1,200 euros net. However, most retirees receive significantly less due to breaks in employment, part-time work, and other factors. There are significant differences between pensions of men and women, with women more often having lower pensions due to career breaks and part-time work. It is estimated that nearly one in seven retirees in Germany lives below the poverty line despite decades of contribution payments.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the social inequality and gender disparities in pension amounts, highlighting the struggles of retirees living near or below the poverty line despite long working careers. They focus on the need for pension reforms to ensure a dignified life for all elderly citizens.
Center: Center-leaning sources report the factual data about pension calculations and the economic realities retirees face. They present balanced views on the pension system’s strengths and weaknesses, noting the challenges of part-time work and career breaks affecting pension amounts.
Right: Right-leaning sources may emphasize personal responsibility and the importance of continuous full-time work to secure higher pensions. They might highlight the pension system’s sustainability and the need to encourage longer working lives and private savings.
