BERLIN (AP) — Germany’s Cabinet on Wednesday approved a 4.57% rise in retirees’ pensions from this summer, well above the current rate of inflation.
Rises in German pensions are linked largely to wage developments. Although inflation has subsided over the past year, the outcome of recent salary negotiations in various sectors has reflected demands for hefty pay rises following a big increase in living costs.
The increase will take effect on July 1, the first time since 2000 that pensions in Europe’s biggest economy have risen by more than the annual inflation rate, which in March stood at 2.2%, German news agency dpa reported.
An increase last year of 4.39% in the former West Germany and 5.86% in the less prosperous and formerly communist east completed efforts to bring pensions in the two parts of the once-divided country level more than 30 years after reunification.
Germany has a population of 84 million, including more than 21 million retirees.
Electrician, 55, filmed racially abusing Muslim women as they returned from a pro
Testimony begins in lawsuit accusing Japanese police of racial profiling
Academicians Vow Greater Contributions
Master Craftsman: Dyeing Expert Dedicated to Palette for Tibet Carpet
Trial opens for former Virginia hospital medical director accused of sexual abuse of ex
Lin Dan: Leader of 'Residents' Attendants'
Guangzhou, Shanghai take lead in CBA playoffs
Technician Leads Team in Making Scientific, Technological Innovations
Timberwolves dispute between Taylor and Lore, Rodriguez over ownership moves to mediation
Leading by example, Hangzhou Asiad showcases common dreams and unity despite differences
Why Meghan's podcast has hit a snag before it even begins: Duchess's much
Yang Xiaoyu: Boosting Museum's Role in Promoting China's Fine Traditional Culture