The demographic crisis is reshaping the way countries function. Its effects extend far beyond families and the labour market, influencing local governments, schools, hospitals, care systems, public finances, and even national resilience and strategic security.

SAn ageing population brings growing care needs, increased demand for healthcare services, and mounting pressure on public budgets. At the same time, many regions are expected to face population decline, the outmigration of younger generations, and a weakening of local economies. In practical terms, this may lead to school closures, reductions in public transport services, difficulties in maintaining local infrastructure and public services, and a decline in investment attractiveness.

For this reason, demographic policy cannot be confined to a single programme or government department. What is needed is a long-term, integrated approach – one that strengthens local communities, creates conditions for stable and dignified lives, protects natural resources, and ensures that the energy transition contributes to greater resilience without deepening social and regional inequalities.