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
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.
ESCAP population data sheet 2023
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.
Meaningful youth engagement in climate action in Asia and the Pacific : building sustainable futures today
This policy brief on Meaningful Youth Engagement in Climate Action in Asia and the Pacific intends to guide governments and other institutions in Asia and the Pacific towards achieving more meaningful youth engagement in climate action and provides a set of general recommendations to do so.
The future of employment in Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand: demographic and labour market trends of ageing societies in the context of the fourth industrial revolution
Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are facing challenges to ensure adequate old-age income security and social protection for older persons due to demographic and labour market shifts. While these countries have successfully managed to improve socioeconomic well-being, declines in the number of prime working age adults, ageing populations and technological changes will accelerate the need for participation of older persons in the workforce.
Events
South-East Asia - Stakeholder Consultation for the Asia-Pacific Fifth MIPAA Review and Appraisal
Check in Meeting with Focal Points on Ageing (South and South West Asia and North and Central Asia)
Check in Meeting with Focal Points on Ageing (East and North East Asia, Pacific and South East Asia)
Blogs and Op-eds
Growing older, staying connected in the digital age
Building a future-ready society so people can live long and age well
