In fresh months there have been reports suggesting that the Polish government is considering increasing retirement age au 70 years already in 2026. This information has sparked a wide public debate and many controversy. Let us take a closer look at this proposal, its possible effects and arguments for and against it.
Current pension strategy in Poland
Currently in Poland, the retirement age is:
- 60 years for women
- 65 years for men
This has been in force since 2017, erstwhile earlier age thresholds were restored after an earlier reform, which assumed a gradual increase in retirement age to 67 years for both sexes.
Proposals for amendments and their justification
According to any unofficial sources, the government is considering increasing retirement age au 70 years already in 2026. The main argument behind specified a change is an ageing society and decreasing number of people of working age, leading to deficits in the Social Insurance Fund (FUS). Currently, contributions only cover 85.6% the expenditure of the pension scheme.
Longer working life could improve the financial balance of the strategy and increase future pensions. any studies propose that Poland could rise retirement age gradually, reaching the level 67 years In 2030.
Social reactions and controversy
Information on plans to rise the retirement age to 70 years caused a wave of discontent and protests among Poles. Many citizens are afraid that they will not be able to work this long due to their wellness or the nature of their work.
On the another hand, experts point to the request to improvement the pension strategy in the face of extending life expectancy and demographic change. According to the study prepared on behalf of ZUS, equalising the retirement age of women and men is inevitable and aims to increase future benefits and prevent alleged pension poverty.
In addition to raising the retirement age, another proposals for the improvement of the pension strategy besides arise. The Ministry of household promised that by the end of the year it would present the government's position on changes, including the anticipation of retirement even 5 years earlier I don't think so.
In addition, discussions on equalising the retirement age of women and men. Now women can quit at age 60 years, while men of age 65 years. Experts propose that raising the retirement age of women to 65 years is inevitable and should happen as shortly as possible.
Increase of retirement age to 70 years It's a proposal that inspires quite a few emotion and controversy. On the 1 hand, it can improve the financial condition of the pension strategy in the face of adverse demographic trends. On the another hand, it raises public concerns about the anticipation of further work at an advanced age.
Regardless of the final decisions, it will be crucial to find gold middleto guarantee the stableness of the pension system, while taking into account the needs and capabilities of citizens.
More here:
Retired for 70 years? Analysis of proposals to rise the retirement age in Poland
