Eurolink Age, a non-profit network of organisations and individuals that promotes good policy and practice on ageing, is calling on EU social affairs ministers to give assurances that future reforms on social protection will not leave older people worse off.
“Too many older people are finding that they no longer have adequate means to support themselves – 35% of those living below the poverty line in the EU are age 50 and over,” says Sally Greengross, Eurolink Age secretary-general. “This is simply unacceptable, and we are concerned that unless action is taken now, the situation will worsen.”
They have published a handbook which gives an overview on the similarities and differences of pension schemes in the EU countries. It sets out the minimum income levels for older people in each of the member states, and some of the additional benefits they are entitled to, showing the variety of the different national systems. Paula Garrido