Left Party demands poverty-proof pension for single parents - Left Party demands poverty-proof pension for single parents
Germany’s federal government is currently reviewing pension reform proposals aimed at stabilising benefits and expanding coverage. The debate includes calls for a universal system, with Thuringia’s political leaders pushing for changes to protect vulnerable groups. Single parents and carers could see improved support under new plans put forward by the SPD and the Left Party.
The Alterssicherungskommission (Rentenkommission) is examining various models to reform the pension system. Thuringia’s SPD leader, Georg Maier, has backed a universal pension approach. He also proposed crediting time spent raising children or caring for elderly relatives toward future pension payments.
The Left Party has gone further, demanding a single, unified pension system funded by all workers—including the self-employed and civil servants. Their social policy spokesperson, Katja Maurer, stressed the need for poverty-proof pensions, particularly for disadvantaged groups. She highlighted single parents as a high-risk category due to precarious employment, part-time work, and lower pension entitlements.
Maurer also called for expanded childcare access and fair pay for unpaid care work. These measures, she argued, would help reduce old-age poverty among those balancing work and family responsibilities.
The reforms under discussion aim to secure pensions for future generations while addressing gaps in the current system. If adopted, the proposals could reshape how contributions are calculated and extend protections to previously underserved groups. The government’s final decision will determine whether these changes take effect.
