With Tragaki Alexandra.
Postponed.
Home to 6 out of 10 living persons, Asia is the region the most demographically heterogeneous. The Asian population ages rapidly; however regional differences in the level and speed of aging are striking. There are countries that managed to reap the first demographic dividend, others that are currently under the transition towards the fourth stage of demographic transition, while others are trying to benefit from the longevity dividend.
Demographic figures are (most often) striking; the world changes rapidly. Population size, growth rates and geographical distribution are issues discussed widely, but rarely in depth: very little is said about their implications at regional, national, or international levels. Population trends are crucial for the environment, economic growth, social cohesion as well as international relations, yet they remain largely overlooked.
In the 21st century, population concerns are very different to those of the previous century. Population-age structure is the most important factor when the perspectives of a country are examined. Increasing life expectancy has resulted in more cohorts of people that have grown up during different historical periods and shaped by very different major events, living in the same time period. Never before have our societies been as multi-generational as they currently are. Social cohesion may be at stake due to different needs and priorities, but also due to persistent age-segregation.Different cohorts age differently. Though demographic trends are very much predictable, their economic, social and environmental outcome remains uncharted. An interdisciplinary approach to address challenges emerging from unprecedented demographic changes is now more needed than ever before.