Germany’s coalition clashes over pension cuts as reform deadline looms

Young lawmakers push for pension cuts—but veterans warn of betrayal. Can Germany’s coalition bridge the gap before 2026?

, and Administrator

2025 November 19 . 3:06 AM

1 min read

This is a black and white image where we can see men are standing. They are wearing suits. In the... — This is a black and white image where we can see men are standing. They are wearing suits. In the background, we can see curtains and wall. There is a watermark in the top left of the image.

Schweitzer on pension debate: 'Not a charity project' - Germany’s coalition clashes over pension cuts as reform deadline looms

A dispute over pension reforms has intensified within Germany’s governing coalition. Alexander Schweitzer, Minister-President of Rhineland-Palatinate and SPD deputy leader, criticised young Bundestag members pushing for cuts. He argued they fail to grasp the financial struggles of pensioners who rely solely on their earnings from decades of work.

Schweitzer stressed that pensions represent the only income for many after years of labour. He warned against reducing benefits, urging the coalition to stick to its promises. At the same time, he acknowledged the need for reform, with a pension commission set to propose changes by summer 2026.

The pension commission’s recommendations are now due by mid-2026. The coalition faces a tight timeline to resolve disagreements and push through reforms. Without consensus, delays or further divisions could stall the process entirely.