Overview

• DIW president Marcel Fratzscher proposed a compulsory social year for retirees with health exemptions and roles in social services or even defence.
• Trade unions, social associations and parties across the Bundestag criticized the idea, according to commentary recounting the reactions.
• RP Online’s analysis argues the call misses the real problem and likens it to misguided fixes such as the Aktivrente and a Boomer‑Soli.
• Commentators note that many older people already work past retirement or collect bottles because their pensions do not cover basic needs.
• Satire amplified the backlash by mocking suggestions of using seniors for military duty, while opinion pieces warned against such notions with historical references.