The retirement age at 70 will apply to all individuals born after December 31, 1970. This move positions Denmark at the forefront of retirement ages in Europe. On Thursday, the law received substantial support in parliament with 81 votes in favor and 21 against. Denmark's current retirement age, which is expected to increase to 68 by 2030 and 69 by 2035, has been tied to life expectancy since 2006, reviewed every five years.
However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of the Social Democrats has expressed intentions to renegotiate this automatic adjustment in the future. She stated that it might not be reasonable to continually extend working years without considering the impact on differing professions.
Among those opposing the legislation, roofer Tommas Jensen highlighted the strain on blue-collar workers, stating, "We can't keep going," and advocating for more time with family after a lifetime of work. Recently, protests backed by trade unions have been held in Copenhagen against the increase, emphasizing concerns that a higher retirement age threatens dignified living standards for senior citizens.
Retirement ages across Europe show a trend towards increases in response to rising life expectancy and economic positions. For comparison, retirees can begin claiming pensions in Sweden at 63, while in Italy and the UK, the ages are 67 and gradually increasing. France's recent rise from 62 to 64 sparked widespread protests, showing that similar trends can lead to public outcry.
In summary, Denmark's decision reflects broader regional adjustments to retirement ages aimed at addressing demographic and economic challenges but raises complex issues about the labor force's capabilities and quality of life for future retirees.
However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of the Social Democrats has expressed intentions to renegotiate this automatic adjustment in the future. She stated that it might not be reasonable to continually extend working years without considering the impact on differing professions.
Among those opposing the legislation, roofer Tommas Jensen highlighted the strain on blue-collar workers, stating, "We can't keep going," and advocating for more time with family after a lifetime of work. Recently, protests backed by trade unions have been held in Copenhagen against the increase, emphasizing concerns that a higher retirement age threatens dignified living standards for senior citizens.
Retirement ages across Europe show a trend towards increases in response to rising life expectancy and economic positions. For comparison, retirees can begin claiming pensions in Sweden at 63, while in Italy and the UK, the ages are 67 and gradually increasing. France's recent rise from 62 to 64 sparked widespread protests, showing that similar trends can lead to public outcry.
In summary, Denmark's decision reflects broader regional adjustments to retirement ages aimed at addressing demographic and economic challenges but raises complex issues about the labor force's capabilities and quality of life for future retirees.
