Denmark is gearing up to become the first European country with a retirement age of 70, following a recent parliamentary vote. The law, which will apply to anyone born after December 31, 1970, raises the retirement age from the current 67 to 68 in 2030 and 69 by 2035.
Despite its passage, there’s ongoing controversy. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen hinted at the need for potential renegotiation on automatic age increases, emphasizing that a one-size-fits-all solution may not work. Many, like Tommas Jensen, a 47-year-old roofer, voice concern for workers in physically demanding jobs, calling the change "unreasonable" as they struggle to envision working until 70.
Copenhagen has seen protests led by trade unions opposing the retirement age hike. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, a union chairman, criticized the legislation as "unfair," citing Denmark’s healthy economy yet the highest retirement age in the EU.
Retirement ages across Europe vary, with adjustments reflecting longer life expectancy. Countries like Sweden and Italy have retirement ages set at 63 and 67 respectively, while the UK and France are also reviewing their pension age policies. As conversations around aging and labor intensify, Danes are left questioning what "retirement" will look like for future generations.
Despite its passage, there’s ongoing controversy. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen hinted at the need for potential renegotiation on automatic age increases, emphasizing that a one-size-fits-all solution may not work. Many, like Tommas Jensen, a 47-year-old roofer, voice concern for workers in physically demanding jobs, calling the change "unreasonable" as they struggle to envision working until 70.
Copenhagen has seen protests led by trade unions opposing the retirement age hike. Jesper Ettrup Rasmussen, a union chairman, criticized the legislation as "unfair," citing Denmark’s healthy economy yet the highest retirement age in the EU.
Retirement ages across Europe vary, with adjustments reflecting longer life expectancy. Countries like Sweden and Italy have retirement ages set at 63 and 67 respectively, while the UK and France are also reviewing their pension age policies. As conversations around aging and labor intensify, Danes are left questioning what "retirement" will look like for future generations.
