Unemployment is a greater threat than demographics

Policy Brief

It is increasingly common to hear claims that Europe is facing a demographic time-bomb.

As populations age, the ratio of old people to the young rises, putting pressure on health services and pensions. In many European countries, the size of the working population has passed its peak. In others, declines in the working-age population are prevented only by the arrival of younger immigrants.

While demographic pressures are real, it is argued in this Policy Viewpoint that they may be overstated. In many European countries, unemployment – youth unemployment in particular – is a more significant issue.

Read the policy viewpoint