December 5, 2025
Germany’s coalition government pushes for strong majority ahead of crucial pensions vote
The coalition government in Germany is urging its senior leaders to garner support from potential opposition, aiming to secure backing for its contentious pension reforms.
Leading the charge, Alexander Hofmann, from Bavaria’s conservative Christian Socialists (CSU), stressed that the coalition must have “its own majority” as the critical vote approaches on Friday. Reports indicate that the country is facing significant challenges that demand a stable government.
Deputy Prime Minister Lars Klingbeil of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) cautioned against depending on the Socialist Left’s decision to abstain, which could theoretically tip the bill in favor. He expressed his intent to “form our own majority” by the time of the vote, in a recent conversation with public broadcaster ARD.
The coalition is set to vote on a comprehensive pension package at noon on Friday, with results expected by early afternoon Japan time.
This package aims to stabilize pension amounts and enhance the “mother’s pension,” which supports women who step back from work to care for children.
However, young conservatives are against this change, citing financial concerns and the potential strain it could place on future generations.
A notable change, long pursued by the CSU, would extend the parenting period for children born before 1992, allowing all children to be counted for three years. This reform is projected to increase costs to €5 billion from 2027, maintaining at €4 billion annually thereafter.
Additionally, the bill includes two more pension alterations: elevating occupational pensions next year and permitting those who work past retirement age to earn up to €2,000 monthly without tax implications.
The situation has somewhat improved with the Left Party’s announcement to abstain, which reduces the necessary majority from 316 to 284 votes. Hence, even if a few coalition members defect, the coalition can still potentially secure a majority.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope that his coalition would achieve a full majority from all 630 members of the Bundestag, aiming for what is known as a chancellor’s majority.
