The proposal by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to renegotiate the welfare agreement established in 2006 is facing significant opposition from various stakeholders. Employers are expressing considerable concern regarding these plans, as they believe the agreement has been instrumental in ensuring Denmark maintains a healthy economy through a gradually increasing retirement age linked to citizens’ rising life expectancy.
Brian Mikkelsen, the director of the Danish Business Association (Dansk Erhverv), stated that the agreement is a cornerstone of Denmark’s welfare society. He emphasized that it has contributed to a strong economy and a robust workforce, arguing that it is incomprehensible to consider changing a framework that has proven so beneficial.
Danish Industry (Dansk Industri) shares these concerns, labeling the proposal as “deeply irresponsible.” Morten Høyer, the political director, explained that Denmark is already facing a labor shortage, and the welfare agreement has ensured a steady influx of workers into the labor market. Høyer strongly urges Mette Frederiksen and other politicians to maintain the agreement.
The original welfare agreement, established in 2006, includes provisions for a gradual increase in the retirement age, which the Danish Parliament (Folketinget) must review every five years. During the upcoming vote in 2025, the retirement age could potentially be set to 70 years starting from 2040. However, Mette Frederiksen has indicated that this will be the last time the Social Democratic Party (Socialdemokratiet) votes in favor of such an increase.