Reports, working papers, policy briefs and other publications

This publication is a guide for Asia-Pacific policymakers and practitioners in developing and revising policies and programmes on older persons. It provides an overview of (a) global, regional and subregional norm-setting documents that address issues related to older persons and (b) linkages between the Sustainable Development Goals and the priority directions of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA). It describes documents, including laws, policies, strategies and action plans. There are templates of these documents and a checklist for developing policies and programmes on population ageing. Tools developed by ESCAP to support member States in drafting and revising policy-related documents on ageing are highlighted. The Annex contains the 2022 outcome document of the Asia- Pacific Intergovernmental Meeting on the Fourth Review and Appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, which is the most recent region-specific norm-setting document on population ageing in Asia and the Pacific.

The populations of countries in the Asia-Pacific region are ageing at an unprecedented pace. There are variations across countries, yet all are moving in the direction of increasing absolute numbers and proportions of older persons. Population ageing is driven by declining fertility and mortality, coupled with increased longevity, or the demographic transition. Overall, it is the result of successful economic and social development, and as such, rising life expectancy should be celebrated as one of humanity’s major achievements.

This paper assesses the latest evidence on climate change and population ageing in the Asia-Pacific region. It outlines implications climate change will have on meeting the objectives of MIPAA and the 2030 Agenda. The paper calls for a coherent policy approach that is inclusive and forward-looking. One that protects older persons from climate impacts, reduces their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and harnesses their potential in climate action. It outlines several recommendations to support Asia-Pacific countries in considering the intersection between climate change and population ageing in the above-mentioned Regional Review. Importantly, it recognizes that older persons must have a voice in climate action.