CSU warns of middle class expropriation in pension reform - Söder Slams ‘Middle-Class Expropriation’ in Germany’s Looming Pension Overhaul
CSU leader Markus Söder has warned against expanding the pool of pension contributors, calling it a potential 'expropriation of the middle class'. He cautioned that including civil servants, the self-employed, or taxing dividends for social security could place an unfair burden on workers. Söder also dismissed the far-right AfD’s call for a 70% pension level as 'utterly unfundable'.
The pension commission is expected to start work before the end of the year. Its findings, due by mid-2026, will shape future policy decisions on retirement payments. Leaders from multiple parties have already signalled their positions, setting the stage for difficult negotiations ahead.
