On 24th October, CCN Denmark hosted an engaging and well-attended seminar focusing on the newly introduced Workmen’s Compensation Reform, which will see its final phase implemented on 1st January 2025. The event brought together a diverse group of professionals and organisations, including speakers from Arbejdstilsynet (Work Environment in Denmark), ARK Lawyers, and KL (the industry organisation representing municipalities in Denmark). Together, they explored the far-reaching implications of this significant reform for both employers and employees across the country.
The primary goal of the reform, as outlined by the government, is to simplify claims processes, improve transparency, and expedite compensation for injured workers. The reform aims to reduce bureaucracy, enhance rehabilitation support, and better align compensation with the actual needs and recovery paths of those affected by workplace injuries. Furthermore, it places greater emphasis on fostering collaboration between employers, municipalities, and regulatory bodies to ensure fair and efficient outcomes for all parties involved.
However, while the reform’s intentions are commendable, the seminar highlighted some potential challenges. After the presentations, it became evident that the reform could significantly increase costs for self-insured municipalities and insurance companies offering workmen’s compensation. The market has already seen an increase in prices for this insurance, ranging from 5% to 9.2%.
A lively discussion followed the presentations, where participants delved into the potential impacts of the reform and shared their experiences handling workmen’s compensation cases. Many attendees expressed that the seminar provided valuable insights into the broader consequences of the reform. Representatives from both Arbejdstilsynet and KL noted that the dialogue uncovered aspects of the reform they had not previously considered, and they expressed a commitment to incorporating this newfound knowledge into potential adjustments to the law, which will need to be approved before Christmas.
Overall, the seminar underscored the critical importance of ongoing dialogue and shared understanding among key stakeholders as Denmark navigates the complexities of this major reform. The insights shared at the event will undoubtedly help shape the future of workmen’s compensation in Denmark, ensuring the reform achieves its intended goals while addressing the challenges it presents.