Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing 2026

Population ageing is one of the most significant social, economic and demographic transformations of our time. Across Asia and the Pacific, countries are navigating rapid changes in how people live, work, care for one another and participate in society. The choices made today will shape the wellbeing of current and future generations.

The Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing brings together governments, civil society, researchers, international organisations, private sector leaders and older people to explore how societies can respond to this transformation. Hosted by HelpAge International, UNFPA and the China National Committee on Ageing, the conference will take place in Hangzhou, China, from 27–30 October 2026, providing a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, share innovation and learn from experiences across Asia and the Pacific.

This year’s conference is framed around a simple but urgent question: not whether societies must adapt to population ageing, but how. Discussions will focus on four interconnected themes:

Silver economy
Technology, artificial intelligence and population ageing
Sustainable caring societies
Age-friendly societies

Through thought leadership articles, expert commentaries, interviews, videos and perspectives from across the region, this page brings together the ideas shaping the conversation ahead of the conference.

Conference themes

Age-friendly societies are better societies for everyone

Age-friendly societies benefit people of all ages. Drawing on examples from across the region, Quyen Ngoc Tran explores how neighbourhoods, services, public spaces and climate responses can be designed to support participation, independence and dignity throughout life.

Asia's Silver Economy: looking beyond the consumer market

The Silver Economy is often discussed in terms of spending power and market opportunity. Philip O'Keefe argues for a broader vision, one that recognises older people as workers, entrepreneurs, caregivers, volunteers and contributors to society.

Voices from across the Asia-Pacific and beyond

Population ageing is experienced differently across countries, communities and generations. Experts, HelpAge network members, policymakers and practitioners are sharing their perspectives on the changes needed to improve the lives of older people across the region.

This section brings together blogs, opinion pieces, videos, interviews and personal reflections from contributors across Asia and the Pacific and beyond, highlighting diverse experiences, innovative solutions and ideas for the future.

When an older person is told to keep quiet

Vijay Naraidoo from Mauritius examines the everyday experience of ageism and exclusion when older people are ignored, dismissed or told their views no longer matter.

Improving the lives of older people

Thiago Herick de Sá from the WHO reflects on the one change he believes would most improve the lives of older people across Asia and the Pacific in the coming decade.

The silver economy is the future economy

Stuart Gietel Basten argues that the real potential of the silver economy lies in helping people remain healthy, active and engaged throughout later life.

Do we adopt another strategy, or finally implement one?

Dr Odgerel Chinbat from Mongolia reflects on the lack of coordination between health and social protection systems.

Building societies for all ages: why cooperation and solidarity matter

Dr. Sabine Henning (ESCAP, Thailand) reflects on the importance of stronger cooperation and solidarity across generations, communities, countries and institutions.

Building care systems for an ageing Asia-Pacific

Sri Moertiningsih Adioetomo from Indonesia argues that building robust long-term care systems can help improve the lives of millions of older people.

Why this conversation matters

By 2050, one in four people in Asia and the Pacific will be over the age of 60. Population ageing is already reshaping labour markets, health and care systems, communities, public finances and economic development across the region. Yet ageing is not simply a challenge to manage. It is also an opportunity to create more inclusive, resilient and equitable societies.

The Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing provides a space to learn from one another, challenge assumptions and build practical solutions for a future where people of all ages can thrive.