Merz warned the German population about the decline in real incomes

German citizens will have to increase spending on pensions, long-term care and healthcare. This was announced on October 7 by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

"Our population will be forced to spend more income on retirement, healthcare and care. And this should be done fairly," the Bild newspaper quotes him as saying.

Merz noted that problems with financing the country's pension system will not arise until 2031, but after that, "major reform" will be required. According to him, for the stability of the pension system, it is necessary to change the "basic structure" of pension insurance. However, this will require large social spending, Merz argues.

In addition, the Chancellor believes that the retirement age in Germany should not be raised, it is better to focus on improving conditions for employees and expanding private pension insurance. Merz suggested revising the calculation of insurance experience, since people who start working later will have fewer years to save. He also expressed support for mandatory contributions to the funded pension system.

Revolution has no beginning: Germany has expanded the EU budget

European countries do not want to increase spending for the sake of Ukraine

Merz, speaking at the regional conference of the party, said that Germany can no longer afford the existing welfare system. He noted that with the economy slowing down and unemployment rising, pension and social benefits costs continue to rise. In 2024, they reached a record €47 billion and are projected to increase. The Chancellor also stated that he intends to continue the course of reducing migration and creating a "business-friendly" policy.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.