Question regarding the War Victim Pension variable (IWAR1)

Dataversion

SOEP_CORE.v41eu_Stata

Data Set

SOEP

Please describe your problem

Dear SOEP team,

I am currently working with the SOEP-PEQUIV dataset and have a question regarding the variables IWAR1$$ (war victim pension) and IWAR2$$ (Widows / orphans war victim pension).

According to the PEQUIV documentation, these variables represent gross income from war victim or war widow pensions. I have also checked the SOEP-PL codebook, but I am still not entirely sure how to interpret these variables.

Could you please clarify what exactly qualifies as a “war victim pension” or “widows / orphans war victim pension” in these variables? In particular, do they refer specifically to compensation/pensions related to World War II, for example, compensation received by individuals who were injured or otherwise affected as a result of WWII? Or do they refer more generally to compensation/pensions received because an individual was a victim of a war, potentially including other wars or conflicts?

I am asking because I am considering using these variables as a proxy for exposure to World War II.

Many thanks for your help.