European pension reforms: Individualization, privatization and gender pension gaps

Abstract

European pension reforms individualize and partly privatize pension entitlements. As a consequence, state and individual responsibilities require redefinition. Moreover, when individualization is statutorily introduced, equal opportunities need to be guaranteed. However, equal opportunities are a long way from being implemented. The various pension-determining factors (for instance, labor-market participation, wages, care) are still subject to, among other things, gender distinctions. This article analyzes the interrelationship of (reformed) welfare arrangements, changed flows of resources, and female life courses in order to gain a better understanding of the gendered norms of pension entitlements.