Reimagining Social Security: Global Lessons for Retirement Policy Changes

by Romina Boccia, Ivane Nachkebia (editor)

Social Security is headed for collapse. How can the United States make its retirement system sustainable without crushing the next generation under a mountain of debt or taxes?


America’s largest entitlement program turns 90 this year—and it’s on life support. There’s no trust fund, just IOUs from the federal government and trillions in borrowing to keep the program afloat. By 2033—just eight years from now—Social Security will go bust. If nothing changes, benefits will be slashed by 20 percent or more.


However, there is a remedy. Reimagining Social Global Lessons for Retirement Policy Changes explains what is wrong with Social Security and how major retirement program reforms from Canada, Germany, New Zealand, and Sweden could work in the United States. Combining interviews and new analysis, this book lays out real-world solutions that protect seniors, preserve individual liberty, and fit the American economic model.


Forget partisan gridlock. This is about smart, tested policies that work. Whether you’re a policymaker, scholar, or concerned citizen, this is essential reading for anyone who cares about the future of retirement in America.

320 pages, Hardcover

Published August 12, 2025

Reviews

[Kurt Couchman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Retirement security goes far beyond Social Security alone. Drawing on the varied experiences of other countries, the authors explore options for robust, well-rounded policies to support financial security during old age and an opportunity-rich economy.

[Christopher Hollinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some great policy recommendations on fixing social security before the "trust fund" runs out based on the changes put in place by other countries.