Denmark Raises Retirement Age to 70, the Highest in Europe
Denmark is set to become the European country with the highest retirement age after its parliament voted to raise the state pension age to 70. The new law, affecting people born after Dec. 31, 1970, will gradually increase the retirement age from the current 67.
Officials say the change is necessary to support the sustainability of Denmark’s welfare system. According to Employment Minister Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen, it ensures future generations can continue to benefit from strong public services.
Denmark’s population currently includes roughly 713,000 residents aged 60 to 69 and approximately 580,000 aged 70 to 79. Of this demographic, around 80,000 Danes continue working past the current retirement age, a trend experts attribute to good health, flexible work conditions, and financial incentives.
However, not everyone supports the change. The Red-Green Alliance, a left-wing party, called the proposed retirement age “unreasonably high,” arguing it will disproportionately affect workers in physically demanding roles, such as teachers and construction workers. The party also noted disparities between ordinary workers and public officials, some of whom can retire at 60 with generous pensions.
The reform reflects a broader shift across Europe, where nations increasingly adjust retirement ages to reflect rising life expectancies. While many Danes remain healthy and willing to work longer, critics say the policy overlooks issues of physical strain and fairness for older workers.
Blair For The Junior Times junior/1750661873/1613367844
1. Who will be affected by the new law?
2. Why did Denmark raise the retirement age?
3. What do critics say about the new law?
4. What does the reform reflect in Europe?
1. Do you know anyone who is retired?
2. Why do people work even after retirement age?
3. What would you do if you worked until age 70?
4. Do you think retirement laws are fair?
Denmark is set to become the European country with the highest retirement age after its parliament voted to raise the state pension age to 70. The new law, affecting people born after Dec. 31, 1970, will gradually increase the retirement age from the current 67.
