Merz Rejects Calls to Retain Early Retirement After 45 Years

Chancellor Merz has rejected demands, including from within his own party, to keep the pension option that allows workers to retire without deductions after 45 years of contributions. Merz said after the cabinet retreat in Brandenburg that the coalition has agreed to adopt the proposals of the pension commission in their entirety. Merz's statement came in response to calls from some members of his own party who had urged the government to maintain the so-called "Rente mit 63" (pension at 63) scheme.

The chancellor made clear that the coalition's position is to follow the commission's recommendations as a whole, which include phasing out the current early retirement option. The cabinet retreat took place in Brandenburg, where the coalition discussed its legislative agenda. The pension commission's proposals are expected to form the basis for upcoming reforms to Germany's pension system.