Europe and Central Asia are undergoing significant demographic transformations that are reshaping their societies and economies. A new policy brief jointly released by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) emphasizes the urgent need for countries in the region to create more inclusive labour markets. The document, titled “Demographic Change in Europe and Central Asia: A Call for Labour Force Inclusion”, highlights that increasing the participation of underrepresented groups is key to addressing the challenges posed by these shifts.
The brief calls for coordinated policy actions to eliminate barriers faced by women, older workers, youth, persons with disabilities, migrants, and refugees in accessing decent employment. It also underscores the importance of lifelong support through quality education, accessible healthcare, and anti-discrimination measures. These steps, the report notes, are crucial to building economies that are equitable, resilient, and able to adapt to changing population dynamics.
While Central Asia is experiencing youth-driven population growth that presents new opportunities for economic development, many European countries are facing the opposite trend—an ageing and shrinking workforce resulting from persistently low fertility rates. The report suggests that by empowering older workers and promoting inclusive participation, demographic change can be transformed into a driver of innovation and economic growth rather than a constraint.
Leaders from the partner organizations reinforced this message. UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean emphasized that investing in older workers can help turn demographic shifts into opportunities for growth and inclusion. ILO Regional Director Beate Andrees highlighted the importance of social dialogue and rights-based policies to ensure access to decent work for all. UNFPA Regional Director Florence Bauer added that expanding opportunities for women, youth, and persons with disabilities is vital to addressing labour shortages and strengthening social cohesion.
The joint initiative reflects the shared commitment of ILO, UNECE, and UNFPA to help countries harness demographic change for sustainable development, equality, and resilience, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition.
