Population Aging and Intergenerational Solidarity: International Policy Frameworks and European Public Opinion

Abstract

The population aging challenges facing the European Union countries have been articulated in two ways: the financial sustainability of public welfare systems and the adequacy of retirement incomes and social services. The ideas underlying social sustainability, though less clearly defined, encompass not just both of these challenges but also address the need to ensure intergenerational solidarity, formally or informally, in countries experiencing aging populations. This paper identifies policy challenges put forward by the United Nations and by the European Union regarding that need while also reporting on the opinions of European citizens on various aspects of intergenerational solidarity.

Keywords:

• population aging
• intergenerational solidarity
• UN policy frameworks

Notes

1. This Flash Eurobarometer survey was conducted by the Gallup Organisation, Hungary, on the request of Directorate General Employment, Social Affairs, and Equal Opportunities. It marked the first European Day on Solidarity and Cooperation on April 29, 2009.