Imagine dedicating four decades to social security contributions, only to find yourself, at the age of 65, working illegally just to make ends meet. This is the reality for Maria, a retired woman in Luxembourg, whose story sheds light on the struggles faced by many retirees. Despite her extensive contributions, her monthly pension simply isn't enough to cover her living expenses.
Maria's story, shared with Contacto, begins in 1992 when she arrived in Luxembourg from Portugal. She worked until she took early retirement at 60. She was informed she had 40 years of service but did not meet the required age. Her pension, however, is based only on the 15 years she worked for cleaning companies in Luxembourg.
She currently receives a monthly pension of €1,100, with €500 going towards a loan on a house she built in Portugal. This leaves her with little choice but to return to work, despite her age. This time, however, her work is 'under the table,' without any deductions or official documentation.
Her daily routine is grueling. She starts as early as 4:00 AM to catch buses to different locations for cleaning jobs. She works for hours, often in multiple locations each day. Despite her efforts, she still has to deprive herself of many things to make ends meet.
Maria's journey began in a Portuguese café in Mersch, where she worked as a cook for five years. She then transitioned to the cleaning sector, where she spent around 15 years. Later, she worked for a large European organization in Capellen for 12 years. Earning €3,000 net monthly, she was able to manage her finances.
But here's where it gets controversial... With a pension of around €1,100, managing her money has become a challenge. She hopes to receive her Portuguese pension, which could bring her total income closer to €2,000, allowing her to finally retire.
Her husband, who worked in a factory for six months, did not adapt to Luxembourg and returned to Portugal. Maria reflects on the social judgments she faced as a woman living alone.
Maria's biggest investment was building her house in Portugal, financed through multiple bank loans. She regrets taking out loans in stages due to rising interest rates. She currently lives with her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren in Luxembourg. She contributes to household expenses and supports her youngest daughter and her baby. She works an average of 23 hours a week cleaning, earning €17 an hour.
Maria is grateful for the opportunities Luxembourg has offered her. She acknowledges that undeclared work is wrong and hopes to return to Portugal soon to enjoy her home. She dreams of finally retiring and resting, even if only for a couple of years.
What do you think about Maria's situation? Do you believe the current pension system adequately supports retirees? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
