Demographics Matter: The Global Challenge of an Ageing Population

Ageing population is a trend increasingly shared by many countries in the world: not only advanced, but also emerging economies. As younger cohorts shrink while the elderly represent a larger share of the population, governments have to deal urgently with issues regarding the future of their welfare systems. How to preserve sound public finances in a context of increasing demand for pensions, health and long-term care? What policies would be needed to promote and support active ageing? Are current models of welfare provision still appropriate to face major changes in States’ demographic structures?