Denmark is about to implement the highest retirement age in Europe, with its parliament voting to increase it to 70 by the year 2040. The change, which applies to all individuals born after December 31, 1970, was approved with a majority of 81 votes in favor and 21 against. Currently set at 67, Denmark's retirement age has been adjusted in accordance with life expectancy since 2006, with planned increases to 68 in 2030 and 69 in 2035 prior to this latest legislation.
Despite the majority support in parliament, opposition voices, including Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, have expressed reservations about the automatic rise in retirement ages. Frederiksen acknowledged the need for a rethink, suggesting that the increased age should not be obligatory without consideration of the workforce's abilities.
Workers, especially those in physically demanding jobs, have voiced their concerns. Tommas Jensen, a roofer, described the decision as "unreasonable," emphasizing that manual laborers could struggle to work towards the age of 70 while longing for quality time with family in their retirement.
The shift has incited protests led by various trade unions in Copenhagen, which argue that the move is detrimental to the rights of workers. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, chairman of a Danish trade union confederation, called the increase "completely unfair," stressing that even with a healthy economy, the added years to retirement come at a cost to the dignity of senior life.
With different countries in Europe adopting varied retirement ages — from Sweden's 63 to Italy's 67 and France's recent rise to 64 — Denmark stands out for its bold policy shift. The ongoing debate reflects deep concerns about the implications for the future of work and the rights of workers as they approach retirement age.
Despite the majority support in parliament, opposition voices, including Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, have expressed reservations about the automatic rise in retirement ages. Frederiksen acknowledged the need for a rethink, suggesting that the increased age should not be obligatory without consideration of the workforce's abilities.
Workers, especially those in physically demanding jobs, have voiced their concerns. Tommas Jensen, a roofer, described the decision as "unreasonable," emphasizing that manual laborers could struggle to work towards the age of 70 while longing for quality time with family in their retirement.
The shift has incited protests led by various trade unions in Copenhagen, which argue that the move is detrimental to the rights of workers. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, chairman of a Danish trade union confederation, called the increase "completely unfair," stressing that even with a healthy economy, the added years to retirement come at a cost to the dignity of senior life.
With different countries in Europe adopting varied retirement ages — from Sweden's 63 to Italy's 67 and France's recent rise to 64 — Denmark stands out for its bold policy shift. The ongoing debate reflects deep concerns about the implications for the future of work and the rights of workers as they approach retirement age.
