The Ageing Population of the European Union: Challenges and Prospects

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Published: Jun 29, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/hapscpbs.31010
Keywords:
Ageing population fertility rates life expectancy silver economy intergenerational solidarity
Simoni Gerasimina Tzouganatou
University of Piraeus
Abstract

During the last few decades, the shape of Europe’s population pyramid has transformed substantially, due to a considerably older population structure, with fewer working-age people and more pensioners. This paper examines the EU’s demographic problem which involves an increasing ageing population as a result of low birth rates and longer life expectancies, leading to the so called “greying of Europe”. Therefore, certain recommendations are suggested in order to mitigate the negative economic, social and geopolitical effects of this demographic phenomenon. It is concluded that the EU’s ageing population should not be regarded solely as a threat, as it has also the potential to provide opportunities for societies through intergenerational solidarity and the rapidly emerging silver economy.

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Author Biography
Simoni Gerasimina Tzouganatou, University of Piraeus

Studies at the Department of International and European Studies, University of Piraeus.

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