Pensions after the financial and economic crisis: a comparative analysis of recent reforms in Europe

This paper sheds light on the initial impact of the economic and financial crisis on pensions policy across Europe, and assesses the first measures proposed and/or introduced in four EU countries.

The author argues that while the impact on different pension models naturally varies, some common trends can be identified: short-term measures to grant additional protection for the elderly at risk of poverty, raising of the statutory retirement age, incentives for active ageing.

The role of private pension funds has been at the core of a renewed and intense debate, with opposite strategies having been pursued in the four countries.