Let’s follow the example of Denmark for a pension at 70? Then follow the example of Denmark and many more.

By Giannis Papadimitriou

“Double impressive” is the news that comes from Denmark. First, the sympathetic country of the North introduced the pension at 70 from 2040. Secondly, the decision in parliament was made by a wide majority (81 votes in favor, 21 against) and without serious reactions, so as not to talk about strikes.

So the Danes have the highest retirement threshold in Europe. They also have some of the highest tax rates in Europe. Nevertheless, they have said in recent years that they are one of the happiest peoples in Europe. Why not?

If we look at the problem of the sustainability of the insurance system with Scandinavian calm and soberness (although for the rest of the Scandinavians the Danes are not Scandinavians, but rather Mediterranean, but this is another debate …), we will find a bitter truth: deadlock. And the possible outlets are minimal.

Alternatives

In fact, we have three alternatives: to raise the retirement limit, increase insurance contributions or reduce state pensions. We overlook other, completely theoretical and difficult applicable options. Like identifying the brilliant young and “smart” employers who prefer to work with “black”. Such as the looting of the state budget at the expense of future generations. Like the precipitation of the elderly in Kaiada …

Thus Denmark establishes the pension at 70. The same had been nominated for Germany, where today the rule is the pension at 67.

But can this apply to everyone? Yes, there are entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, teachers or journalists who would enjoy a “pension at 70”, perhaps discovering a meaningful life in that they remain useful, vigorous and economically active. On the other hand: Will you easily trust your health to a 70 -year -old surgeon? Would you prefer a 70 -year -old painter to renovate your home?

The quality of working life

In reality, however, the essential question is another: not if we will prolong our work life, but what work life will we prolong. Rather, it is no coincidence that the highest retirement threshold in Europe is now established in Denmark.

In a country where there are jobs, where the hours are kept and accrued, where the worker has a 30 -day guaranteed license, where the state stands for a helper to the weak and single parent families, where the social home has been a tradition of decades – in such a country.

I don’t know about other countries, I have some doubts …