Falling birth rates and ageing population

19.10.2022

Question for written answer  E-003429/2022
to the Commission
Rule 138
Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

According to statistical surveys, almost one-fifth of the total population of the 27 Member States is over 65 years old. Low birth rates and higher life expectancy than previous generations mean a European Union with an increasingly ageing population.

According to experts, the EU working population is shrinking in percentage terms, while the proportion of pensioners is increasing. This means a heavier burden on people of working age resulting from the social costs of caring for an ageing population in the Member States.

In view of this:

Can the Commission say what action it is taking to tackle the problem of low birth rates and, consequently, an ageing population?