Denmark Sets New Standard with Retirement Age Increase to 70

The shift, which is designed to be adaptive to life expectancy, has sparked controversy and protests among workers, particularly those in physically demanding jobs.

Denmark is on trajectory to have the highest retirement age in Europe after its parliament passed a law raising the retirement age to 70 by the year 2040. This change follows a trend initiated in 2006, linking retirement age adjustments to life expectancy, with the current age set at 67, increasing to 68 by 2030 and then to 69 by 2035. The upcoming law primarily impacts individuals born after December 31, 1970.

The new legislation passed on Thursday with a significant majority of 81 votes in favor and 21 against. However, concerns were raised by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who indicated a potential reevaluation of the automatic increase in the retirement age. Frederiksen highlighted that her party does not condone perpetually extending working years without consideration.

The sentiment of those affected reflects the harsh reality of physically strenuous work. Tommas Jensen, a 47-year-old roofer, expressed his frustrations by emphasizing the intensity of blue-collar labor. "We’re working and working, but we can’t keep going," he said, underscoring the difficulties faced by workers in challenging jobs. Jensen also noted the importance of having time to enjoy family life.

In Copenhagen, recent weeks have seen protests against the rising retirement age, backed predominantly by trade unions. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, the leader of a Danish trade union confederation, characterized the measure as "completely unfair," pointing to Denmark's robust economy yet the highest retirement age in the EU. He argued that the increase would strip citizens of their right to a dignified retirement.

Across Europe, retirement ages exhibit a range of standards. The Swedish government allows pension benefits to start at age 63, while in Italy, the pension age is 67 and also subject to life expectancy adjustments. In the United Kingdom, the pension age incrementally rises to 66 or beyond for those born after early 1960. Meanwhile, France instigated significant unrest with a recent hike from 62 to 64, passing into law without a parliamentary vote amid widespread protests.

This evolution of retirement ages across various nations echoes broader economic trends and societal expectations, ultimately raising questions about the balance between longevity and quality of life for aging populations.