Denmark's parliament has approved legislation that will raise the retirement age to 70 by 2040, establishing it as the highest in Europe. This new law will affect all individuals born after December 31, 1970, and comes as part of a long-term trend that began in 2006 of linking the official retirement age to life expectancy, with adjustments occurring every five years. Currently set at 67, the retirement age is slated to increase to 68 in 2030 and 69 in 2035.
The recent vote saw 81 in favor and 21 against the changes. However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, part of the Social Democrat party, indicated last year that the automatic increases might be up for renegotiation, questioning whether it is fair to force citizens to work longer without considering their circumstances.
Workers like Tommas Jensen, a 47-year-old roofer, voiced their concerns, calling the change "unreasonable" and particularly challenging for those in physically demanding jobs. "I've paid my taxes all my life," he remarked, emphasizing the need for quality time with family in retirement.
The legislation has ignited protests in Copenhagen, supported by various trade unions. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, a union leader, condemned the move as unjust, arguing that a higher retirement age diminishes the quality of life for seniors despite Denmark's strong economy.
Retirement ages are on the rise across Europe, with variations reflecting national policies on life expectancy. Sweden allows pensions to begin at 63, Italy has a standard age of 67, and the UK is gradually increasing the age for future retirees. France recently raised its retirement age from 62 to 64 amid significant social unrest. The debates surrounding retirement age continue to underscore the challenges faced by workers and their advocates throughout Europe.
The recent vote saw 81 in favor and 21 against the changes. However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, part of the Social Democrat party, indicated last year that the automatic increases might be up for renegotiation, questioning whether it is fair to force citizens to work longer without considering their circumstances.
Workers like Tommas Jensen, a 47-year-old roofer, voiced their concerns, calling the change "unreasonable" and particularly challenging for those in physically demanding jobs. "I've paid my taxes all my life," he remarked, emphasizing the need for quality time with family in retirement.
The legislation has ignited protests in Copenhagen, supported by various trade unions. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, a union leader, condemned the move as unjust, arguing that a higher retirement age diminishes the quality of life for seniors despite Denmark's strong economy.
Retirement ages are on the rise across Europe, with variations reflecting national policies on life expectancy. Sweden allows pensions to begin at 63, Italy has a standard age of 67, and the UK is gradually increasing the age for future retirees. France recently raised its retirement age from 62 to 64 amid significant social unrest. The debates surrounding retirement age continue to underscore the challenges faced by workers and their advocates throughout Europe.
