The UN Department for Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) issued the 2023 edition of its biennial flagship report that aims to assess the world’s social situation by identifying emerging trends of international concern and analyzing relationships among major development issues with international and national dimensions. The World Social Report 2023 focuses on population ageing and the challenges and opportunities it brings as countries strive to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Titled, ‘Leaving No One Behind in an Ageing World,’ the report recalls that in setting out a universal plan of action to achieve sustainable development, the 2030 Agenda aims to leave no one behind, particularly the most vulnerable people, including those at older ages.

Casting population ageing as “a defining global trend of our time,” which represents a major success story driven by improvements in health and reductions in fertility, the report highlights some of the positive effects of ageing on achieving the SDGs, including: changes in demand for environmental resources, with positive effects on natural capital (SDG target 12.2); reducing global food waste and food losses along production and supply chains (SDG target 12.3); and improving prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse systems to reduce waste generation (SDG target 12.5).

However, the publication warns, this demographic shift comes with challenges, even in countries with relatively youthful populations. While countries are at different stages of population ageing, the report underscores the importance of ensuring in all stages that “the productive capacity of the economy can support the consumption needs of a growing older population,” including by planning ahead.

The report argues that promoting equal opportunities from birth can help give every person “an equal chance to grow older in good health and with economic security,” calling for access to quality education, health care, and decent work throughout the life course.

The report further stresses that older persons should be able to continue working for as long as they desire and are able, but should not be compelled to do so, advocating for: flexible retirement policies with guaranteed universal minimum benefits; eliminating barriers to older people’s participation in the labor force; and supporting learning and skills development throughout the life course.

Finally, the report recommends that governments balance the need for fiscal sustainability of public pension systems with the goal of ensuring income security for all older persons.

The report was launched on 12 January 2023. [Publication: Leaving No One Behind in an Ageing World: World Social Report 2023] [Executive Summary] [Key Messages] [Publication Landing Page]