As urban populations evolve, cities face profound demographic changes that reshape how people live, work, and interact. These shifts are not limited to population ageing but encompass a range of factors such as migration, changing family structures, and evolving workforce dynamics. Understanding and responding to these transitions is not just a necessity but an opportunity to create inclusive, resilient, and equitable urban environments for all generations.
One of the most pressing demographic shifts facing cities is population ageing. By 2050, over 30% of the European Union’s population is expected to be over 65. This trend demands that cities rethink urban infrastructure, housing, healthcare, and mobility to ensure dignity and accessibility for older residents. At the same time, cities must balance these needs with those of younger generations to avoid putting undue pressure on their future —embodying the principle of intergenerational justice, by ensuring fairness and equitable opportunities across all age groups.
Immigration plays a crucial role in counterbalancing the effects of an ageing population, contributing to economic growth and the sustainability of welfare systems by maintaining workforce numbers. Ensuring successful integration is therefore not only a social imperative but an economic necessity.
Cities are often the first destination for migrants, including refugees and undocumented individuals, who bring diverse cultural perspectives. However, newcomers—especially those in vulnerable situations —often face systemic barriers, including language difficulties, limited access to services, and social exclusion. To effectively respond, cities must design inclusive policies that go beyond consultation, engaging migrant communities in participating in city life. The co-creation of integration strategies is key to fostering social cohesion and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their background, feel welcome and supported.
The demographic shifts occurring in cities today disproportionately affect women, especially in the context of caregiving. As women tend to live longer, many find themselves balancing full-time jobs with the responsibility of caring for both elderly relatives and children. While this work is often unrecognised and underpaid or not paid at all. In addition, migrant women often experience compounded discrimination due to their gender, age, and migrant status, limiting their access to opportunities and support, hence they often must take on precarious unstable work and not make enough to make ends meet.
As women also live longer, they are more vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness in their old age. This issue is particularly acute for women, who may struggle to access healthcare, safe public spaces, and other essential services. To address these issues, cities must recognise the value of unpaid care work, create inclusive policies, and design services that cater to the needs of women. Empowering them through tailored support and promoting their social integration is essential for building equitable and inclusive urban environments.
Demographic changes sweeping across cities may be challenging, but they also represent a dynamic opportunity to rethink and rebuild urban life in a way that benefits all residents. By fostering intergenerational fairness, creating inclusive environments for migrants, and addressing gender disparities, cities can build a future where all citizens can thrive. Through innovative policies and a commitment to co-design, cities can not only adapt to demographic change but also lead the way toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and fair urban future.
This year’s Social Affairs Forum is built around the topic of cities mitigating demographic change. Hosted by the city of Amsterdam on 14-16 of May, it will focus on the challenges and opportunities cities face as they navigate demographic transitions across various social dimensions.
We will explore how municipalities can lead urban transitions in ageing, labour markets, and intergenerational justice building on the experience and ambition of the Dutch city.
This is a members-only event organised by Eurocities. If your city is not a member yet, become one.
