The Christian Democratic Union’s social wing is urging Chancellor Friedrich Merz to swiftly negotiate a compromise regarding the controversial ‘pension at 63’ policy. With regional elections approaching, the call for action has intensified.

The CDU’s social wing is increasing pressure on Chancellor Friedrich Merz to address the contentious issue surrounding the proposed elimination of the ‘pension at 63′ policy. Christian Bäumler, Vice-Chairman of the Christian Democratic Workers’ Association, emphasized the need for flexibility within the party, stating that the government should not cling to its maximalist demands in pension reform discussions.

Bäumler highlighted the urgency of reaching a compromise before the upcoming regional elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Berlin, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in September. He pointed out that the proposed changes would impact hundreds of thousands of individuals who have worked hard, often in physically demanding jobs, and deserve consideration in the reform process.

The proposed pension reform aims to abolish the early retirement option without penalties after 45 years of contributions, currently available at 64.5 years but commonly referred to as ‘pension at 63.’ While Chancellor Merz and Labor Minister Bärbel Bas have supported the comprehensive implementation of the commission’s recommendations, CDU leaders from eastern regions have expressed concerns about the implications of this change, arguing that many rely solely on state pensions without additional income.