"Postponing reforms endangers prosperity, competitiveness, and trust in our democratic institutions," Helena Melnikov stated in response to media inquiries. She expressed deep concern over the current conflict surrounding the proposal from the Commission for Old-Age Security to eliminate the penalty-free pension scheme after 45 contribution years. This scheme creates "significant disincentives to prematurely exit working life."

Impact on Workforces and Pension Fund

Due to the penalty-free pension available after 45 years, "annually more than 250,000 experienced professionals leave the workforce, despite many businesses desperately seeking personnel," explained DIHK’s Chief Executive. "This worsens the skills shortage and simultaneously burdens the financing of statutory pension insurance. Given demographic shifts, we cannot afford to lose these workers economically."

"Long-term financing of old-age social security will only succeed if sustainable reforms and economic growth go hand in hand."

Melnikov: "Eliminating this regulation would ease the strain on the pension fund and help retain urgently needed professionals in the workforce for longer. This strengthens employment, growth, and the competitiveness of Germany as a business location."

Commission Proposals Move in the Right Direction

Beyond this issue, the Pension Commission's proposals "move in many key aspects in the right direction," according to DIHK’s Chief Executive. "They address the consequences of demographic changes, bolster the long-term financial stability of statutory pension insurance, and send an important signal against early retirement."

Her urgent appeal: "Essential reforms must no longer be postponed. At the same time, the current economic situation prohibits additional burdens on businesses, such as higher contribution rates under mandatory capital coverage."

Freedom of Choice for Self-Employed Workers

Concerning mandatory pension schemes for newly self-employed individuals, DIHK advocates for freedom of choice: "Self-employed individuals should be able to decide whether to contribute to statutory pension insurance or utilise equivalent private pension options," said Melnikov. "In the long term, successful financing of old-age security will only be achieved if viable reforms and more economic growth go hand in hand."

Therefore, it is imperative that the reform agenda is pursued. The economy requires new perspectives, "which calls for Germany to have a capable and united federal government."