Raising Retirement Ages: Impact on Human Value

Discussions about raising retirement ages in Europe are intensifying, against the backdrop of demographic aging and declining birth rates. Although the issue does not seem to directly affect Cyprus, European trends cannot be ignored.

Actuarial studies in Greece predict a gradual increase in retirement ages, reaching 68.5 years by 2030 and 72.5 years by 2070. A similar trend is observed in Denmark, where legislation provides for an increase to 69 years in 2035 and 70 years in 2040.

These policies treat citizens as economic units, overlooking human value. Raising retirement ages means that people will work at an older age, often facing health problems and reduced physical abilities. The role of the elderly in society, whether as grandparents or as active citizens, is overlooked.

The discussion needs to shift from numbers to human value, focusing on strengthening youth employment, supporting families, and creating flexible work models. The goal is to ensure a decent life.