Historic Yes to the 13th AHV pension accelerates the need for reform
Published: Sunday, Mar 3rd 2024, 18:31
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For the first time, the people and cantons have approved an initiative to expand the AHV, specifically a 13th AHV pension. The historic "yes" vote means that new sources of funding for the first pillar must be found quickly - without an unpopular increase in the retirement age.
"The population wants a strong AHV for everyone": these were the words of Social Affairs Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider when she commented on the vote in favor of the 13th AHV pension. 2.5 million senior citizens will receive a 13th AHV monthly pension from 2026.
Around 58 percent of voters and 16 cantons approved the popular initiative launched by trade unions. After a long and very intensive debate, the result was clear, said Baume-Schneider. The argument of purchasing power had dominated the voting campaign. At 58.3 percent, the turnout was the ninth highest for a proposal since the introduction of women's suffrage in 1971.
In order to keep the AHV fund in balance, additional income is needed quickly. Baume-Schneider mentioned higher salary contributions and an increase in VAT. She will present the basis for the discussion on the AHV fund to the Federal Council in the coming weeks. "This should enable us to make a decision on financing before the end of the year."
Higher retirement age not an option
This debate is likely to be as emotional as the previous referendum campaign. The conservative parties, which fought against a 13th AHV pension, announced their opposition to additional taxes and levies on the Sunday of the vote. The AHV needs structural reforms.
They regretted the rejection of the Young Liberals' pension initiative, which would have provided impetus by adjusting the retirement age in line with life expectancy. "Restructuring the AHV by raising the retirement age is not an issue for the electorate," said Baume-Schneider. This proposal was rejected by the electorate with a three-quarters majority.
In future, however, the issue of a differentiated retirement age with a so-called lifetime working period could come up again. Representatives of the conservative parties expressed this view on the Sunday of the vote.
©Keystone/SDA
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