BEIJING, Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- While China is celebrating its 60 years birthday on October 1, UNFPA and its partners in China are also commemorating the International Day of Older Persons. Today, there are more older people in the world than ever before. More than 1 person in 10 is over the age of 60 and older generations are growing faster than other age groups in the population. In 2050, it is estimated that more than 1 in 5 persons will be more than 60 years old.
Today, China's average is equal to that of the world in terms of the proportion of people aged 60 and above (10 percent) to the total population. However, by 2050, this proportion is expected to rise to 30 percent. The absolute numbers are estimated to increase from 128 million in 2000 to 431 million in 2050.
Population ageing is a reflection of our successes in human development. We live longer and are healthier than ever, which is one of humanity's major achievements.
But societies must ensure that the quality of life of older persons is enhanced and their rights are protected so they can live in dignity. This is especially important during the financial crisis. Strong social security systems are needed that provide services and an adequate standard of living, and that promote solidarity among generations.
"China is facing the challenge from rapid population ageing. I call on Government of China and communities to ensure that older persons can lead healthy and productive lives and make full use of the skills and abilities they have acquired in their lives. This will not only benefit older persons, it will benefit society as a whole," says Dr. Bernard Coquelin, UNFPA China representative.
UNFPA has supported ageing in China since the mid 1980's to build research and policy capacity for ageing. The results generated from these studies were presented at the consultation meeting for drafting the 11th 5-year Development Plan on Ageing in 2005. On the policy front, since 2006, UNFPA has been actively involved in the revision process of the Law of People's Republic of China on the Protection of Rights and Interests of the Aged. In 2007 UNFPA supported the preparation of Appraisal Report on Implementation of Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing 2002 of China. As an integral part of the Chinese government's report, this study reflected views from older persons and grassroots level stakeholders. On the operational side, in 2006, UNFPA launched its first pilot project on ageing in 6 pilot counties to explore models leading to healthy and active ageing. These endeavours in research and pilot projects have laid a strong foundation for enhancing government's capacity to formulate and implement ageing policies and programmes.