Denmark is poised to implement the highest retirement age in Europe, officially set at 70 by the year 2040, following a recent vote in its parliament that saw 81 votes in favor and 21 against. This significant change continues the country’s trend since 2006 of linking the retirement age to life expectancy, with current regulations stating it will gradually rise from 67 to 68 in 2030 and 69 in 2035.
The law impacts all individuals born after December 31, 1970, creating considerable concern among labor groups. Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen indicated last year that her party would seek to renegotiate the automatic increases to ensure fairness and avoid imposing extended working years on the population.
Voices of discontent have emerged, particularly from blue-collar workers. Tommas Jensen, a 47-year-old roofer, expressed frustration with the decision, contending that while those in office jobs may manage, workers in physically strenuous roles cannot sustain longer working lives. “I’ve paid my taxes all my life. There should also be time to be with children and grandchildren,” Jensen stated to Danish media.
The recent vote came amid escalating protests led by trade unions in Copenhagen, arguing the increase is unjust. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, chair of a Danish trade union confederation, condemned the law as "completely unfair," pointing out that despite Denmark’s robust economy, they are implementing the highest retirement age in the EU, threatening a dignified retirement for many citizens.
Across Europe, variations in retirement ages are evident as governments adjust policies to cope with rising life expectancy and tighten budgets. For instance, Sweden allows pension claims at 63, while Italy's standard age is 67, facing possible changes in 2026. In the UK, pensions for those born between 1954 and 1960 start at 66, and in France, a controversial adjustment recently raised the retirement age from 62 to 64, igniting widespread protests.
