China is encouraging its ageing population to volunteer for community services and contribute to various sectors, from education to sports, as part of a broader effort to address the challenges of a shrinking workforce. This comes as the country grapples with a declining birth rate and adopts measures such as delayed retirement to counter the effects of a dwindling workforce.
Expanding the ‘Silver Age’ Initiative
Last week, a national panel on ageing announced plans to expand its ‘Silver Age’ scheme, originally launched more than two decades ago. This programme is now being revamped to cover more areas of economic and social development. The initiative aims to engage elderly citizens in grassroots activities, ranging from dispute mediation to health and fitness, according to the civil affairs ministry.
In an official statement, the ministry emphasised the importance of utilising the elderly population in community governance. By 2028, the ministry expects the scheme to play a crucial role in encouraging social participation and contributions from elderly individuals.
Elderly Contributions to Society
The activities under this expanded initiative will be diverse, including patrolling, childcare, and senior care, as well as assisting disabled individuals. A key focus will also be on supporting rural children, particularly those whose parents are working in larger cities.
Additionally, the ministry called for volunteer positions to be reserved for elderly workers at major sports facilities, events, and key public gatherings, offering them more opportunities to stay engaged and contribute to society.
Addressing Declining Birth Rates and Workforce
China’s birth rate dropped to 9 million last year, with forecasts projecting a continued decline. The United Nations estimates that, at current fertility rates, China’s working-age population will shrink by nearly 40% by 2050, compared to the 2010 level.
As part of broader measures to combat these demographic challenges, China has recently proposed raising the retirement age, which will reform decades-old laws. This move is aimed at easing economic pressure brought on by the country’s ageing population and shrinking workforce.
(With inputs from Reuters)
