A Mediterranean action plan on ageing

Abstract

Ageing is a worldwide phenomenon. As this framework document reveals and as many national and international documents highlight, the world is ageing at a very fast rate. It is estimated that by the year 2020, one-fourth of the world population will be over 60 years of age. The rapid ageing of societies has also reached the shores of all countries boarding the Mediterranean Sea. If, as many experts believe, ageing must be a subject at the top of world agendas, then this Inter-governmental Conference has been called at a most apposite time. The gathering of Ministers and high officials from practically all Euro- Mediterranean countries in Malta to discuss ageing is, in itself, a sign of concern, challenge and shared opportunities. Our target is to take stock of the existing realities as they present themselves today and to design a way forward in which the dignity and quality of life of our elderly population is safe-guarded.