Display 1 - 18 from 18 policies
Canada
The "Promoting Wellness and Independence Older Persons in Custody - A Policy Framework" was introduced in 2018 by Correctional Service Canada (CSC) to address the unique needs of older persons in federal custody. Implemented at the national level and guided by CSC, this policy framework targets the ageing prison population, which is growing due to population ageing, late-life sentencing, and longer sentences. It aims to promote wellness and independence for older persons in custody by building on existing programs and services. Key measures include a holistic, person-centred approach that is age, gender, and culturally appropriate. This framework emphasizes health and well-being, tailored programming, suitable living accommodations, and community engagement. Developed in consultation with experts in geriatrics, gerontology, law, Indigenous health, and correctional health, the framework is informed by both domestic and international research. Ongoing discussions with stakeholders in gerontology, correctional health, ethics, and community contribute to this framework, which is intended as a living document that evolves with emerging data and needs.
Russian Federation
The "Pension Provision in the Russian Federation" was established in 2018 by the Government of the Russian Federation to secure a sustainable and equitable pension system. Implemented at the national level, this policy covers the entire Russian population, ensuring 100% of citizens are either receiving pensions or entitled to them upon meeting eligibility criteria. It targets both working-age citizens approaching retirement and current pensioners, primarily those aged 60 and above. This system, based on compulsory pension insurance, aims to balance revenues and expenditures to provide a socially acceptable pension level. Key measures include the provision of insurance pensions, categorized into retirement, disability, and survivor pensions, which are funded through a nearly entirely distributive (solidarity) model. For those who lack eligibility for insurance pensions, social pensions are provided. Additionally, Federal Law No. 350-FZ, enacted in 2018, strengthens the system’s financial stability to ensure sustainable pension increases, with plans for indexation above inflation rates and a 7.3% increase in insurance pensions by January 2025. The government also guarantees that non-working pensioners’ incomes meet the subsistence minimum in their region, and all pension benefits are adjusted annually based on investment returns, ensuring a steady growth in pension levels over time.
Sweden
The "Delegation for Senior Labour" was initiated in 2018 by the Government of Sweden. This national effort is led by the Delegation with contributions from public and private sectors. It targets older workers, aiming to increase their labour force participation and ensure age-friendly work environments. The delegation collaborated with labour market stakeholders, researchers, government agencies, and other organizations, gathered and analysed research and data on older persons' opportunities in the workforce, addressing issues such as ageism, stereotypes, and the economic and social benefits of extending working life. Through 23 detailed reports, the delegation provided insights into the conditions necessary to support longer working lives for older persons, helped debunk myths about older workers and highlighted the importance of personalized approaches to keeping older persons engaged in the workforce. In November 2020, the delegation submitted its final report to the Government.
Slovenia
The main objective of the programme Promoting employment of older persons – Active until retirement – is to encourage employers to hire older unemployed people from the target group for an indefinite period or at least until they meet the conditions for early or old-age retirement. The programme is managed by the Government Office for Development and European Cohesion Policy, the managing authority for the European Structural and Cohesion Funds. The programme is implemented by the Employment Service of Slovenia. The programme covers the whole territory of Slovenia and targets older unemployed people who are registered with the Employment Service of Slovenia and meet the following criteria: they are aged 58 or more; they have been unemployed for at least 6 months; they have at least 5 years of pensionable service; and they have not received any wage subsidy in the past 24 months. The programme also offers a subsidy of 11,000 euros for each full-time employment of an older unemployed person from the target group. The subsidy is fully eligible if the person remains employed with the same employer for at least 24 months. The programme started in 2018 and lasted until 2023.
Slovakia
The primary goal is to integrate the principles of sustainable development from Agenda 2030 into Slovakia's long-term strategic planning. This includes embedding the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national priorities and formulating a Vision and Development Strategy for Slovakia by 2030. The main coordinating body is the Government Council of the Slovak Republic for Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, chaired by the Minister for Investments, Regional Development and Informatization. Stakeholders include regional and local authorities, academia, business associations, non-governmental organizations, and citizens. The policy covers national and regional strategies, aiming to improve quality of life over economic growth. It targets all sectors affected by the SDGs, with a focus on education, economy, poverty reduction, social inclusion, sustainable settlements, rule of law, democracy, security, and health. The strategy involves a participatory process with a Quadruple helix approach, ensuring decision-making is shared among government, academia, private sector, and civil society. It emphasizes interlinkages between SDGs to maximize co-benefits and minimize trade-offs. Additionally, policies are designed to eradicate poverty and enhance social inclusion. This involves improving social protection systems, increasing access to affordable housing, and supporting marginalized communities. The strategy covers the period until 2030.
Portugal
The National Strategy for Equality and Non-Discrimination 2018–2030 "Portugal + Equal" aims to promote equality and non-discrimination as a foundation for a sustainable future for Portugal, ensuring the full realization of human rights and participation of all individuals. The policy involves various government departments, the Comissão para a Cidadania e a Igualdade de Género (CIG), and civil society organizations, coordinated under the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. The policy is national in scope, targeting all sectors and populations within Portugal, with a focus on combating discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. The National Strategy for Equality and Non-Discrimination (ENIND) introduces three action plans to address gender equality, violence against women and domestic violence, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Key features of the action plans include measures to combat stereotypes and promote sharing of family responsibilities, the introduction of protection measures for victims of gender-based violence, including legal support and shelter provision, and the implementation of educational programmes to foster respect for diversity. The document outlines a strategic vision until 2030, with evaluation and revision of action plans every four years.
Poland
The Information on the Situation of Older Persons in Poland report is an annual publication by the Ministry of Family and Social Policy, mandated by the "Social Policy for Older Persons 2030: Safety - Participation - Solidarity", which was adopted by the Council of Ministers in 2018. The report's primary goal is to monitor and evaluate the socio-economic conditions of older adults in Poland. The report includes demographic analysis, economic and health conditions, family and social support, social participation and services, and the implementation of policies targeted at older persons. It also presents comprehensive statistical data and concludes with recommendations for policymakers to enhance the effectiveness of services and policies for the ageing population. The findings from these reports are crucial for informing and adjusting national and regional policies, ensuring that they remain relevant and responsive to the ageing population's needs.
Netherlands (Kingdom of the)
The “Council of Older Persons” is an advisory body in the Kingdom of the Netherlands established in 2018 to provide advice to the Minister of Health, Welfare, and Sport on issues related to older persons. It is implemented at the national level, aiming to involve older persons in policymaking by offering advice and drawing attention to new policy themes. The council consists of members of older persons from various backgrounds, ensuring diverse perspectives. The main activities include advising the Minister of Health, Welfare, and Sport on issues like healthcare, housing, and social inclusion, promoting the interests of older persons by initiating discussions, providing recommendations, and influencing policy development to improve the quality of life for older persons. The council also works to improve the representation and positive image of older persons in society. In 2020, they, along with the Ministry, launched a campaign called "The Value of Ageing" to raise awareness of the contributions of older adults to society.
Republic of Moldova
The "Age of Action" campaign, supported by HelpAge International, the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women, and the German Federal Republic (BMZ), was launched on June 15, 2018, aligning with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It advocates for older persons' rights to autonomy, long-term care, and protection against violence. Participants included government agencies of the Republic of Moldova, international organizations, civil society organizations and media representatives. The campaign stresses the need for "Active Ageing" in government agendas, urging involvement in UN discussions on older persons' care and rights. Four discussion groups explored the following theme: How to ensure that statistics on the impact of abuse and violence against older persons are regularly collected and their development monitored? What are the existing social, nursing and medical services in the Republic of Moldova? What services need to be created or expanded for older adults experiencing violence and abuse? Are there enough professionals to meet the demand for these services?
Republic of Moldova
The Law no.105 of 14.06.2018 on the employment promotion and unemployment has the purpose to prevent and reduce unemployment, mitigate its social effects, and ensure a high level of employment by adapting the workforce to market demands. The main institutions involved in its implementation are the Government of the Republic of Moldova, specifically the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Social Protection, and the National Employment Agency. Other stakeholders include local public authorities, social partners, non-commercial organizations, and employers. This law applies to citizens of the Republic of Moldova, individuals and legal entities operating within or outside the country, and specific categories of foreigners. It covers the national labour market and aims to support various population groups, including those at risk of unemployment. The law foresees strategies that include increasing employment opportunities, supporting job seekers, and encouraging employers to hire unemployed individuals. The law introduces an unemployment Insurance which provides financial support to insured individuals who are unemployed. Additionally, the provisions of the law include job matching services, vocational training, and employment subsidies. Finally, specific measures for elderly people include facilitating their employment through adapted workplaces and continuous professional development. The law was adopted on June 14, 2018.
Monaco
The Ordonnance Souveraine n° 7121 concerning the regulation of personal service activities in Monaco aims to regulate personal service activities, ensuring they are conducted within a legal framework that excludes medical care prescribed by a doctor and activities solely related to household chores, environment, or living conditions. The main institution involved in the implementation of this ordinance is the Government of Monaco, which oversees the regulation of personal services. The stakeholders include service providers and recipients, particularly those not involved in medical or purely domestic tasks. The ordinance applies to personal service activities within the Principality of Monaco. It covers a range of services excluding those related to medical prescriptions and household tasks, thereby affecting service providers and recipients in the personal care sector. Overall, the ordinance outlines the legal boundaries for personal service activities, distinguishing them from medical and domestic services. It provides a regulatory framework for the operation of personal services, ensuring compliance with Monaco's social and labour standards. The ordinance was adopted on September 24, 2018.
Luxembourg
The "Programme gouvernemental 2018-2023" in Luxembourg was initiated in 2018, formed by the Liberals (DP), Social Democrats (LSAP), and Greens (Déi Gréng). It is implemented at the national level by the Ministry of Social Security, the Ministry of Health, and other relevant bodies. The primary goal is to ensure the country's sustainable development by addressing challenges such as housing shortages, digital transformation, and social inequalities. Some of its key initiatives for older persons include developing an "active ageing" strategy to facilitate the transition from work to retirement, integrate older immigrants, encourage voluntary work, and combat social isolation. Key initiatives also include proposals to potentially raise the retirement age and strengthen the second and third pillars - supplementary occupational pensions and private savings schemes. Additionally, it introduces a “gerontology programme” that combines digital tools developed with stakeholders to provide targeted support to older persons in need of physical, psychological or social assistance. The agreement emphasizes digital inclusion, providing ongoing training and intergenerational courses in digital skills for older persons, and measures to promote networking among them through digital platforms. Finally, it promotes the development of age-friendly housing and the renovation of existing housing to improve accessibility and safety for older persons.
Lithuania
The main goal of the Strategy for the Demographic, Migration and Integration Policy for 2018–2030 is to ensure a positive change in population numbers and a balanced age structure. Specific objectives include creating a family-friendly environment, managing migration flows to meet state needs, and integrating older individuals into society. The policy is coordinated by the Government of Lithuania. It involves families, migrants, older persons, and various societal and governmental stakeholders. The strategy covers demographic, migration, and integration policy from 2018 to 2030. It targets the Lithuanian population, focusing on families, migrants, and older persons, across the national territory. The policy includes improving services for families and children, ensuring equal rights and opportunities for men and women, financial incentives for child-rearing families, and enhancing health and social security. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections with the country and managing the diaspora effectively. The strategy will be implemented through various actions and measures designed to improve the demographic situation, including promoting family values, supporting return migration, and ensuring the well-being of older citizens. The strategy aims for long-term demographic stability and improved social and economic conditions by 2030.
Czechia
The introduction of long-term attendance allowance aimed at supporting individuals who need to take care of a family member requiring long-term home care after hospitalization. The policy is managed by the Czech Republic's social security system, involving healthcare providers and family caregivers. This benefit applies nationally within the Czech Republic. It targets family members of patients who have been hospitalized for at least 7 days and require at least 30 days of home care post-discharge. The allowance can be claimed for up to 90 days. It enables caregivers to stay at home to provide necessary care. The process involves a healthcare provider's certification of the patient's need for long-term home care. The policy was introduced on June 1, 2018.
Canada
The National Seniors Council (NSC) was established in 2007 and engages with seniors, stakeholders and experts to provide advice to the Government of Canada on current and emerging issues and opportunities related to the health, well-being and quality of life of seniors. The NCS reports to the Minister of Labour and Seniors and the Minister of Health. The National Seniors Council provides advice to the Federal Government on issues that matter to seniors. National Seniors Council members are 12m including the Chairperson and are nominated based on their expertise and experience related to seniors' issues. Their appointment ranges from 1 to 3 years. The National Seniors Council is currently focusing on examining measures to further support Canadians who wish to age at home. The National Seniors Council produces publications and reports based on its work priorities. Part of the NSC is to find way to counter ageism. For example, as part of its 2018 to 2021 work plan, the National Seniors Council explored ways to counteract ageism. The Government has asked the NSC to examine how older adults and ageing are depicted through a review of the literature as well as in media.
Belarus
The Coalition for Decent Longevity is an informal network comprising representatives from various organizations and experts dedicated to improving the quality of life for older people in Belarus. The Coalition's primary activities include preparing proposals for the content of the National Strategy for Active Longevity and other regulatory documents related to ensuring a dignified life for older adults. It also facilitates the exchange of information and best practices on activating older adults, enhancing their quality of life, and fostering intergenerational dialogue. Additionally, the Coalition organizes discussion platforms to address issues concerning the protection of the constitutional rights and interests of older people, counters ageism, and increases the capacity of organizations working in this field. The Coalition plays a crucial role in initiating and promoting research focused on the needs and conditions of older adults, as well as the quality of services provided to them. It also advocates for raising public awareness about the real situation of older people in Belarus and works on creating a positive image of older adults in the media. The Coalition actively engages in public discussions on matters related to decent longevity and monitors the effectiveness of the National Strategy for Active Longevity and other related plans. Since its establishment in 2018, the Coalition has contributed significantly to the development of the National Strategy “Decent Longevity – 2030” and has organized the Academy of Golden Age Leaders for activists involved in self-governance in universities for the third age and other platforms aimed at empowering older adults. It also hosted the first Belarusian Forum “Decent Longevity: Equal Opportunities for All Generations,” which brought together over 200 participants from all regions of Belarus, as well as experts and guests from Austria, Germany, Israel, Kazakhstan, Russian Federation, Ukraine, Sweden, and Switzerland. Additionally, the Coalition developed an interactive Decent Longevity Map, providing information about organizations and initiatives focused on enhancing the quality of life for older citizens.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the framework of the reform of social protection in 2017, the Law on Foster Care in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina was adopted and its application began in March 2018. The main goal of this Law is the systemic regulation of housing and support for children without parental care, adults without family care, and older persons, infirm and persons with disabilities by housing and protecting them in a family environment. A new system has been created to monitor the work of the foster caregivers in the countries.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Law on Labour stipulates that the employment relationship with the worker terminates by force of law once an employee reaches 65 years of age with at least 15 years of insurance (general condition for termination of employment). However, those persons who have exercised the right to an old-age pension before reaching the age of 65 have the opportunity to re-establish employment on the basis of an employment contract and to work until they reach the age of 65. Beneficiaries of an old-age pension over the age of 65 have the possibility to be employed and to continue working on the basis of a temporary and occasional employment contract and an employment contract.