The Swiss voted in favor of increasing their pensions and rejected raising the retirement age

The Swiss have given themselves an extra month of pension every year following a national referendum focusing on the living standards of older people. The vote took place after the presentation of a motion initiated by the unions. Pension increases from 12 monthly payments to 13 payments per year,

Before the referendum, the Swiss government warned of increasing pensions. it will be very expensive, but nearly 60% of voters said “yes” in Sunday’s poll. At the same time, 75% rejected increasing the retirement age from 65 to 66 years.

The maximum monthly state pension is 2,550 euros, an amount many say is not enough to live in Switzerland as the cost of living is very high in the country, especially in cities like Zurich and Geneva. one of the tallest in the world,

old people can’t make ends meet

Health insurance premiums, which are mandatory for everyone in Switzerland, have increased rapidly and sometimes even more so for older people. they have difficulty paying,

For women who have taken time off work to start families and for immigrants recruited decades ago to work in Swiss factories, restaurants or hospitals, This may seem especially difficult Live in the country.

There are more and more people who work till the age of 70, not by choice, but out of necessity, Meanwhile, work-related stress and fatigue are on the rise among the younger generation.

The government and companies assure that it is “unattainable”.

The proposal to increase pensions faced strong opposition from the government, parliament and Swiss business leaders. He argued that it was unattainable,

Swiss voters follow their government’s advice on monetary matters: more than a decade ago They declined an extra week One year leave.

This time he said It was enough And he used the power given to him by the Swiss system of direct democracy to vote on the motion himself. The initiative was also successful required double majority: Popular vote, and also a majority in a large part of the country’s 26 cantons (regions).

“Historic victory for retirees”

The result was described as a “historic victory for retirees” by Avivo, the Swiss association that protects the rights of current and future retirees. remedy Aligns state pensions with the Swiss pay system

Which is also paid in 13 monthly installments, meaning workers get double the payment in November.

The system was originally designed help people before christmas And the annual tax bill. As Swiss retirees point out, pensions are also taxable and the Christmas fun doesn’t end at age 65.