The recent statement by the German Minister of Economics regarding a potential increase in the retirement age to 70 has sparked active discussions not only in Europe but also in Azerbaijan. On social media and in society, the alarming question is increasingly being raised: “Will our country follow this example?”
Member of the Milli Majlis, Mushvig Jafarov, noted that the retirement age in Azerbaijan is currently set at an optimal level, and there is no need to raise it.
“I believe there is no need to raise this threshold. A person should not spend the majority of their life working – that’s not something we should aspire to. Yes, economic trends and mechanisms of social burden are changing worldwide today, which requires new approaches. However, expecting a person at 65 to be able to work effectively in any field is far from reality,” he said.
The parliamentarian emphasized that an increase in life expectancy does not mean that an individual’s physical and mental capabilities remain at the same level.
“For example, how safe would it be for a 65-year-old driver to operate a passenger bus? Of course, this is something we need to seriously consider. People of this age often struggle to adapt to technological innovations. How many people over 60 today have mastered computer skills and can use them professionally?” said Jafarov.
In his opinion, if the question of raising the retirement age is ever considered, it will only be in the long term – not earlier than in 15-20 years.
“Today’s 30-40-year-olds are more in line with modern requirements – they grew up in a digital environment. Perhaps when this generation reaches 70, they will be able to continue their work in certain areas. But expecting today’s 60-year-olds to work until 70 is unrealistic,” the deputy concluded.
