Denmark has officially set a course to have the highest retirement age in Europe after passing a law to increase it to 70 by 2040, affecting everyone born post-1970.
Denmark Implements Record Retirement Age, Sparking Controversy
Denmark Implements Record Retirement Age, Sparking Controversy
Denmark raises its retirement age to 70, igniting debates about fairness and labor conditions.
Denmark's parliament has enacted a historic measure to increase the retirement age to 70, establishing itself as the country with the highest retirement age in Europe. This decision will impact individuals born after December 31, 1970, and marks a continuation of Denmark’s established policy of adjusting the retirement age based on life expectancy, which has been in place since 2006. Currently at 67, the age will move to 68 by 2030 and 69 by 2035, before culminating at 70.
The law, passed with a notable majority of 81 votes in favor and 21 against, has not been without its critics. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, a member of the Social Democrat party, hinted at potential renegotiation of the automatic increase principle, stating, "We no longer believe that the retirement age should be increased automatically."
Critics, particularly from blue-collar professions, have voiced concerns regarding the practicality and fairness of working longer years. Tommas Jensen, a roofer, expressed his discontent, stating that while professionals in less physically demanding jobs may cope, those in labor-intensive roles like his face significant challenges. “There should also be time to be with children and grandchildren,” he argued, highlighting the stark differences in working conditions across various sectors.
The law's passage has triggered protests supported by trade unions, which have rallied in Copenhagen in response to the proposed changes. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, chairman of a major trade union confederation, criticized the move as "completely unfair," arguing that Denmark's robust economy should not necessitate the EU's highest retirement age.
Across Europe, governments are responding to increased life expectancy by adjusting retirement ages. Sweden allows pension claims starting at age 63, while Italy’s standard retirement age sits at 67 with potential future adjustments. The UK and France have also raised their retirement ages, the latter sparking significant unrest when President Emmanuel Macron passed legislation to increase the age from 62 to 64.
As these conversations unfold in Denmark and beyond, the question remains whether increasing the retirement age serves the best interests of workers and their future quality of life.
