Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has proposed a significant overhaul of the Danish pension system, including the potential elimination of the Arne pension, senior pension, and early retirement scheme. This proposal aims to simplify the current complex system and move away from political dogmas surrounding specific pension schemes.

The reform would entail removing the existing early retirement options, including the Arne pension and senior pension. Løkke Rasmussen is also abandoning his previous demand for a government agreement on the pension debate.

The Social Democrats, a government partner, have expressed opposition to the proposal. Minister for Employment Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen stated the party will safeguard existing early withdrawal schemes like the Arne pension.

As an alternative, Løkke Rasmussen suggests a “part-time pension” system. This system would allow individuals a certain number of years before retirement to reduce their working hours and salary, with the state compensating for the salary loss through a pension benefit.

For Danes currently receiving Arne pension or senior pension who are unable to work, Løkke Rasmussen suggests exploring an “assessment” process. He emphasizes that individuals should not be forced to work if they are unable to. The goal of abolishing the current schemes is to simplify the system.

The Danish Trade Union Confederation has strongly criticized Løkke Rasmussen’s proposal, stating that it “misses the mark completely.” Chairman Morten Skov Christiansen emphasized the need for sustainable solutions that allow wage earners with long and demanding careers to retire with dignity, rather than further deterioration of the system.