CSU Pushes Costly Expansion of Mütterrente in Election Campaign

The proposal to equalize pension benefits for mothers faces criticism over financial feasibility and lack of inclusion in the CDU-CSU joint platform.

The CSU proposes expanding the Mütterrente to grant three years of pension credits for mothers of children born before 1992, matching the benefits given to mothers of children born later.
The plan, expected to cost €4.45 billion annually, has drawn criticism from economists and CDU representatives, who argue it is financially unsustainable.
Friedrich Merz, CDU leader and chancellor candidate, expressed reservations, suggesting a focus on childcare infrastructure over pension benefit expansions.
CSU leaders defend the proposal as a matter of fairness and a measure to combat old-age poverty, despite its exclusion from the CDU-CSU joint election program.
Economic experts, including members of the German Council of Economic Experts, warn that the plan could strain public finances and advocate for reforms to reduce social security costs instead.