In focus 2002
Theme: Nordic measures for sustainable working life
In the last analysis, the great challenge for the Nordic countries is the survival of the welfare state. To meet this challenge, more people must be in work, and they must work for longer than before. The employment rate must be sufficiently high to meet productivity requirements, but also to reduce the escalating cost of increasing ill-health, invalidity pensions and early retirements. This is not a new problem, but it is now higher on the Nordic countries’ agenda than ever before. It is not only the subject of intense discussions at the national level, but also of research, meetings and exchanges of experience.
Preparation for a long working life should start early
Preparation for a long working life should start early Finnish authorities, trade unions and employers’ organizations are trying to bring about a change in attitudes that will once again make older people feel welcome in the workplace. They all agree that preparation for a long working life should start early.
Senior citizens must rely mainly on their own efforts
The efforts made to find employment for older people in Denmark are based on local networks run by the unemployed themselves, since they are the ones who need to achieve results. In addition, efforts are made to keep older workers employed.
