Cyprus ranks first among EU member states in the payment of multiple pensions, according to a study by the European Centre for Parliamentary Research and Documentation (ECPRD).

The study was commissioned by the House of Representatives following a request from MP Stavros Papadouris of the Green Party, as lawmakers review the issue and examine pension policies across the EU.

"Most European countries have now abolished the system of multiple pensions for former and current officials," Papadouris told Brief. He added that in most cases, former officials have been integrated into their country’s general pension system.

The House of Representatives had formally requested information from the ECPRD regarding the legal framework governing multiple pensions for both current and former public officials. The inquiry sought clarification on whether active politicians are permitted to receive multiple pensions alongside their salary, as well as the age limits imposed on such benefits.

The ECPRD report reveals a clear trend toward abolishing special pension schemes and incorporating them into national social security systems. However, exceptions remain in France and Sweden, where separate pension schemes for politicians are still in place.

Regarding the simultaneous receipt of a salary and pension by active officials, the study found that the majority of EU countries explicitly prohibit this practice to ensure fiscal balance and fair distribution of public funds.

Despite this general trend, exceptions exist in Bulgaria, Romania, and Sweden, where politicians can receive a pension while still holding office. In Germany, multiple pensions are permitted but are subject to a maximum compensation cap. Meanwhile, in Greece, multiple pensions are allowed, but the law imposes restrictions and reductions.

Specifically, in Greece, individuals receiving two pensions face a 20% reduction in total pension benefits, while those receiving three pensions face a 30% reduction.

Several countries, including Spain, France, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Estonia, Hungary, Croatia, and the Czech Republic, have completely abolished multiple pension schemes.

The retirement age for politicians varies across Europe, with most countries setting the limit between 63 and 67 years.

According to Papadouris, the study’s findings will serve as a valuable tool in shaping a well-informed decision on pension reform. "In my view, it is time to put an end to this distortion, which is also a source of frustration for society," he stated.

The full ECPRD study has already been published on the House of Representatives' website.

Meanwhile, there is widespread opposition from parliamentary parties to the Finance Ministry’s proposed pension reform bill.

The House Finance Committee is currently reviewing 12 different legislative proposals, with many members advocating for a consolidated draft law to be presented at the upcoming plenary session.