Policy-oriented research on population trends
ESCAP publishes reports, working papers, policy briefs and other material analyzing population trends and their policy implications in the Asia-Pacific region. The publications will guide policymakers and all stakeholders.
Latest Publication
Leaving No One Behind: Advancing a Society for All Ages in Asia and the Pacific
This report examines the demographic drivers reshaping the region, analyses the implications for labour markets and the future of work, and highlights the transformative potential of healthy and active ageing. It documents the substantial economic contributions of older persons — through labour, entrepreneurship, unpaid care and social capital — and makes the case for urgently realigning employment systems, social protection and health policies with demographic realities. The report also explores pathways to women’s economic empowerment, recognizing that gender inequality compounds the vulnerabilities of ageing across the life course.
Publications
Leveraging digital technologies to improve quality of life for older persons : case studies from China, Japan and the Republic of Korea
This report reviews strategies in China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, reviewing policies and programs aimed at improving life quality for older adults. Through case studies, it highlights trends, challenges, and lessons in creating inclusive, tech-driven ageing societies.
ESCAP population data sheet 2024
The Population Data Sheet, published annually by ESCAP, features a range of key indicators on population and development. The focus is on population size, structure and growth rates, as well as fertility, mortality and migration, at country, subregional and regional levels. The Data Sheet is a useful reference tool for researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders. The 2024 Population Data Sheet focuses on overall population and development indicators, providing updated insights for the year.
Intergenerational relations: creating a world for all ages so that no one is left behind
Populations globally are changing in fundamental ways. A result of the demographic transition, or the shift from high to low mortality and fertility rates, the slower population growth is accompanied by a shift in population age structures. Never before in history have so many people of different age cohorts been living together. This paper, prepared jointly by the five regional commissions of the United Nations, explores the social and economic challenges and opportunities of demographic shifts towards multigenerational societies across the countries covered by the five regional commissions.
Labour force participation of older persons and population ageing in China : trends, challenges and ways forward
The population of China has been ageing rapidly over the last few decades. According to the censuses of China, the proportion of persons aged 65 years or older, has been steadily accelerating, from almost 6 per cent in 1990 (NBSC, 1992) to 7 per cent in 2000 (NBSC, 2002), 9 per cent in 2010 (NBSC, 2012), and nearly 14 per cent in 2020 (NBSC, 2022).
Asia-Pacific Population and Development Report 2023
The report brings together the latest evidence on the priority actions of Asian and Pacific Ministerial Declaration on Population and Development (APMD), with a particular focus on SDG indicators. There are also good practices and lessons learned by member States and civil society organizations, based on responses to the voluntary national Asian and Pacific Population Conference survey and research findings on key population and development issues.
Trends in social development : the future of work in Asia and the Pacific
The year 2023 marks the midpoint of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and their respective targets. It is also a time when countries in the Asia-Pacific region are being transformed by climate change, rapid digitalization and demographic shifts, in particular the ageing of the population. While these megatrends cannot be controlled entirely, they can be addressed through consistent, forward-looking policies that create more inclusive, equitable and just societies.
Events
Fifth Asia-Pacific Review and Appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing: Briefings of focal points on ageing in North and Central Asia
Blogs and Op-eds
Building a future-ready society so people can live long and age well
Strengthening social health protection for health coverage for all ages
