Pension policy in an integrating Europe

Abstract:

This work looks at pension policies in Europe and provides interesting comparisons between EU countries and between the EU and the United States.

The book is organised in three parts. Following a comprehensive overview by the editors, part one opens with a chapter which provides analysis of the conditions of the elderly as regards health status, labour market activity, income and wealth. The next chapter explores the relationship between labour taxes and unemployment, but without coming to a firm conclusion other than to suggest that there is scope for further research. A similar outcome arises in the following chapter which explores the impact of the Italian CFL programme on job opportunities for young people. The ageing question and the possibilities of increasing the retirement age are examined in chapter five along with the implications for PAYG systems of pension funding. Part two opens with chapter six which explores savings incentives, specifically those of the US and the extent to which they prepare American citizens for retirement. Discussion moves to Germany for chapter seven, which explores the significance of taxation on consumption or income with support for the former, citing the negative impact high income tax rates have on the savings market. Part three moves to the issues surrounding pension portability and opens with a chapter exploring the US trend, which is away from defined benefits plans and towards defined contributions plans. The assistance given to cross-border workers by pension mobility is explored in the final chapter, which asserts that if it is an impedance to cross-border mobility then it should also impede mobility within each country.

The book will interest scholars and students of public policy, public finance and European studies as well as practitioners and policy makers in the insurance business within the EU.