Suddenly, a key compromise is withdrawn - Black-Red coalition abandons pension reform motion amid internal strife
The Black-Red coalition has dropped plans to vote on a supplementary motion for pension reform this Friday. The decision follows internal disputes, with young Union lawmakers criticising their party's lack of commitment to genuine change. Meanwhile, the Left Party's abstention ensures the broader pension package will still pass.
The supplementary motion included several review mandates for the upcoming Pensions Commission, which is set to draft a party city reform next year. One key proposal—exploring whether capital income should be subject to pension contributions—was blocked by PKM leader Christian von Stetten. This move frustrated younger Christian Democrats, who already doubted their party's willingness to push for real reform.
The SPD reacted with confusion to the Union's request to withdraw the motion, as such resolutions are mostly symbolic. Some conservative lawmakers also expressed deep distrust, not just of their coalition partners but of their own leadership's approach to pensions. Without the motion, the coalition will now rely on the Left Party's abstention to secure a majority for the pension package—a situation many conservatives find politically awkward.
Young Union members feel sidelined by the decision. They argue the withdrawal signals a lack of seriousness about reform, leaving them questioning their party's direction on pensions.
The pension package will now pass with the Left Party's abstention, avoiding a vote on the controversial motion. The episode highlights tensions within the coalition and among younger conservatives, who see little progress on meaningful reform. The Pensions Commission's work next year will be closely watched as a result.
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