Fact Sheet Bureau of Public Affairs Washington, DC March 15, 2007 United States Addresses Impact of Global Aging![]() “Governments, businesses, schools, health systems, churches, non-governmental organizations, and many others will need to work together to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities of an aging population.” – Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice In many parts of the world, people are living longer and healthier lives. For the first time in history, people 65 years old and over will soon outnumber children under age five. But this enormous human achievement of the 20th century also poses significant challenges. As the world’s population ages, the prevalence of chronic disease increases. Insurance, pensions and other social support systems are strained. Many governments, both in the developed and developing worlds, are beginning to recognize that global aging can affect economic growth, labor force, trade, migration, international relations, and national security. To promote greater international dialogue on these challenges, the U.S. Department of State is hosting a half-day Summit on Global Aging, on March 15, 2007, in Washington, D.C., for experts and members of the international community. THE FACTS ON GLOBAL AGING
U.S. EXPANDS DIALOGUE ON GLOBAL AGING International cooperation will help countries plan and better address our common concern for worldwide aging. The United States is working to stimulate further dialogue about the health, economic, social, and security implications of global aging. |