Germany’s Health Minister Carsten Linnemann has pledged to block proposed pension cuts for caregivers, advocating for their crucial role in society and vowing to safeguard their support under upcoming reforms.

Health Minister Carsten Linnemann has taken a firm stand against pension reductions for caregivers, which had been proposed by his predecessor. Addressing the issue, Linnemann stated, ‘I do not want to save on the pensions of caregiving family members.’ Highlighting their vital contributions, he described them as ‘Germany’s everyday heroes’ and stressed the importance of preserving their benefits as part of broader healthcare reform efforts.

Under the controversial proposal introduced by former Health Minister Nina Warken, pensions paid by care insurance for caregivers were set to be reduced to 70 percent of the current amount, which can go up to 740 euros per month under existing provisions. Linnemann has made it clear that he intends to reject this measure, ensuring that caregivers continue to receive full pension contributions as they currently do. He emphasized that any cuts would send the wrong message to society while endangering the sustainability of the care system.

The decision has garnered broad support across political lines and institutions. Leaders from the CDU, SPD, and CSU parties, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have voiced agreement with Linnemann’s stance. Furthermore, organizations such as statutory health insurers, the Patient Protection Foundation, and the Social Association of Germany have expressed approval for preserving pension contributions for caregivers. The proposed healthcare reform, set to be discussed this fall, is seen as a critical step toward addressing the needs of more than three million individuals receiving care at home—an essential pillar of Germany’s healthcare system.