Healthy life expectancy is below retirement age
One of the central points in Deboosere’s analysis is the healthy life expectancy. That is the number of years that people live on average in good health, without serious limitations in daily functioning. According to him, it is located in Belgium 63.7 yearswhile the statutory retirement age is 67 years.
He emphasizes that these figures hide major differences within the population. Some people remain physically very active later in life, but a significant group already suffers from health problems before retirement age. “There are people who will still run a marathon at the age of 78, but about a quarter of the population between the ages of 55 and 64 has health problems that actually cause them problems in daily life.”
Working longer: choice or obligation?
Deboosere makes a distinction between voluntarily working longer and being obliged to continue working longer. According to him, there are many people who enjoy their job and want to remain active later in life. There must be room for that group to work longer.
At the same time, he warns against policies that force people without an alternative to remain active longer, even if their physical or mental capacity decreases. He refers to sectors with heavy workloads, such as education and healthcare, where employees often indicate that work is difficult to maintain later in life.
“Most people are up at some point, even if they enjoy their work. I know people who were teachers with great love and taught the classroom, but once they are 58, 60 or 62 years old they say that they can no longer handle those children,” says Deboosere.
Pension malus can increase inequality
Another important point of discussion is the planned one pension malus. Deboosere states that women in particular are at risk of being affected by this. Today, about half of women do not meet the conditions to retire early without being financially affected, often due to interrupted careers, part-time work or care responsibilities.
“The penalty that is being introduced will primarily affect women. Half of women are currently not eligible to retire early.”
Also read: Many do not realize it yet, but their retirement age can suddenly move up
Pension reform touches on broader social issues
The discussion about pension reform is not only about budgetary measures, but also has an impact on workability, health and gender equality. The government faces the challenge of keeping the pension system financially sustainable, while at the same time taking into account differences in careers, health and living conditions.
