My plenary speech on Addressing EU demographic challenges: towards the implementation of the 2023 Demography Toolbox
The Demographic challenges Europe is facing are among the main threats to our Union’s competitiveness.
The EU and Member States need to create an environment that supports the life choices of our citizens.
We must help them to fulfil their aspirations and to reconcile private and professional lives, by ensuring access to quality childcare , particularly in light of the upcoming revision of the Work-Life Balance Directive in 2027.
The shrinking of working-age population and labour shortages poses great risks on many levels but if tackled in the right way, demographic trends can strengthen Europe’s resilience.
This can only be achieved, if cohesive policies focus on gender equality, intergenerational fairness, digital and green transition, managing legal migration, and if they involve remote and rural regions that too often are left behind.
Promoting the youth’s access to quality jobs, affordable housing and decent living standards is also crucial.
By giving young people access to stable housing, we empower them to build their future and address the great challenges of our time.
