Pension harmonization
Pension harmonization is a catchphrase in the political discussion in Austria .
It describes the harmonization of the different pension systems of employees , self-employed and farmers . The same contributions should result in the same benefits in the future . (The term pension in Austria corresponds to the German term Rente , hence also pensioner instead of pensioner. Retired civil servants receive a pension in Austria.)
This goal is to be achieved through various pension reforms , in particular through the passing of the General Pension Act .
The word has also been criticized as a euphemism for lowering performance.
Pension harmonization was the word of the year in Austria in 2004.