More Powers for the Office of Constitutional Protection against Extremism - Hesse overhauls pensions and security laws to combat extremism and protect retirees
Hesse has introduced sweeping reforms to both its pension system and social security laws. The changes aim to secure long-term financial stability for retirees while giving the agency stronger tools to tackle extremism. Officials describe the measures as necessary responses to current social and legal challenges.
The pension overhaul includes new benefits for long-term contributors and better recognition of part-time work. Meanwhile, the social security agency now has expanded powers to monitor and prevent extremist threats, particularly among minors.
The pension reform law brings several key adjustments. It strengthens the financial sustainability of the system by adjusting contribution calculations. Workers with decades of payments will see higher benefits, rewarding long-term participation. Additionally, part-time and voluntary work will now count more fairly toward social security entitlements.
On security, Hesse’s domestic intelligence agency—the Hessian Office for the Protection of the Constitution—has gained broader authority. A July 2024 ruling by Germany’s Federal Constitutional Court required updates to surveillance laws, prompting these changes. The agency must now act as an early-warning system, or 'seismograph', for extremist activities.
Under the new rules, investigators can access computers and mobile phones covertly—but only with judicial approval. Another significant shift allows the agency to keep personal data on minors for extended periods in rare cases. This applies specifically to radicalised youth suspected of terrorist intentions.
The reforms come as Hesse faces rising extremist threats. Nearly 13,000 extremists operate in the region, with a notable increase in violent crimes committed by minors. Authorities argue the expanded powers will help counter these growing risks.
The pension changes will take effect in stages, with long-term contributors and part-time workers seeing the first adjustments. Security measures, including extended data retention and covert digital surveillance, are now in force.
Hesse’s government insists both sets of reforms address urgent needs—securing social security for an ageing population and strengthening defences against extremism. The intelligence agency’s new capabilities will be subject to ongoing judicial oversight.
