Information on pension provision remains inaccessible to many, despite their crucial role in providing a social safety net to people in old age. This Peer Review held in Madrid in July 2013 focused on good practices in Member States and supported the coordination of policies in this area.

© Schlierner, Fotolia

Host Country: Spain

Date: 2-3 July 2013

Peer countries: Austria - Belgium - Germany - Hungary - Netherlands - United Kingdom

Stakeholders: AGE, ESIP

In Spain, workers in contributory employment receive an annual summary of their employment history and social contributions, but a more comprehensive report for workers aged 50+ is currently under consideration. While only an estimation, it would help people make informed choices.

Lessons learned

• Effective pension communication requires a clear aim to be defined from the outset. The target audience should also be clarified to determine an appropriate method of communication. The choice of and presentation of information are further important considerations (e.g. which language register is used, are all pension pillars covered, etc.).
• It is necessary to strike a balance between the societal and economic costs associated with pensions, gaining citizens’ trust in pension reforms, and meeting the needs of both government and citizens. Furthermore, there is a need to balance government’s legal responsibility with transparency; information needs to be accessible while ensuring that the information is technically correct.
• Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all pension communication policy. However, the gender gap in pensions disfavouring women is a common challenge.

Peer Review manager

Ms Renate Haupfleisch (ÖSB Consulting GmbH)