This Implementation Dialogue will focus on  the older people pillar of the Demography Toolbox.  

During the dialogue, Commissioner Šuica will seek specific feedback from stakeholders on the status of implementation of some of the initiatives under this pillar (i.e. in particular long-term care and non-discriminations). In addition the dialogue will seek contributions and feedback on the European transition to a longevity society and economy.  The main aim is to assess progress towards existing policy objectives and identify ways to improve, facilitate and accelerate implementation and simplification.

The insights gained through this comprehensive dialogue will feed into the implementation of the Toolbox and could provide indications on other eventual lines of work to be explored within the Union’s competences. 

Context

Europe is undergoing a major demographic transformation. Such demographic change has a profound impact on everyday life and requires holistic and integrated solutions. Europeans are living longer and healthier lives, therefore all our policies need to be forward-looking and support the shift from an ageing to a longevity society. 

The June 2023 European Council conclusions called on the Commission to put forward a toolbox to support Member States in addressing demographic challenges and their impact on Europe’s competitive edge. Following this call, in October 2023, the Commission adopted the demography toolbox, which draws on experiences from across the EU and sets out a comprehensive approach to demographic change. 

It is structured around 4 pillars: supporting parents by better reconciling family aspirations and paid work, notably by ensuring access to quality childcare and good work-life balance; supporting and empowering younger generations to thrive, develop their skills, facilitate their access to the labour market and to affordable housing; empowering older generations and sustaining their welfare, through reforms combined with appropriate labour market and workplace policies; and where necessary, addressing labour shortages through managed legal migration, in full complementarity to harnessing talents from within the EU. 

The toolbox includes a series of policy instruments that can support Member States in mitigating the impacts of demographic change.