The world is ageing rapidly. People aged 60 and older make up 12.3 per cent of the global population, and by 2050, that number will rise to almost 22 per cent.

In Albania, development towards a wealthier society, increased life expectancy and expanded education have changed significantly - and will continue to change - the roles and livelihoods of the elderly. The overall picture shows that within the overall population decline process, the elderly are the only growing segment that could represent a third of the entire population in 2031.

Ageing is a triumph of development: People are living longer because of better nutrition, sanitation, health care, education and economic well-being. Although an ageing world poses social and economic challenges, the right set of policies can equip individuals, families and societies to address these challenges successfully.

UNFPA in Albania works to raise awareness about population ageing and the need to harness its opportunities and address its challenges. UNFPA also supports research and data collection in partnership with academia and expert researchers, to provide a solid base for policies and planning, and makes sure ageing issues are integrated into national development programmes and poverty reduction strategies.