The question of how to deal with an ageing workforce is becoming pressing, considering the demographic situation in developed countries. The challenges faced by employees who entered the labour market several decades ago are being addressed by experts within the international project COST Action LeverAge. The meeting, bringing together over a hundred researchers from this initiative, is currently being hosted by Palacký University.
“The ability to adapt to the ever-accelerating changes in the labour market is one of the greatest challenges we face,” says Dr. Hila Axelrad, a researcher at Reichman University in Israel and one of the conference participants.
What is your main area of research and scientific focus?
I am a senior scholar at the Aaron Institute for Economic Policy of Reichman University, Israel, which is a think tank dedicated to shaping socio-economic policies through impactful research and strategic initiatives. Specifically, my work explores issues such as age discrimination, employment and unemployment trends among older workers, retirement transitions, and workforce participation in later life.
What is your role within the COST Action LeverAge network?
I am an active member of two working groups within this network. One is focused on the multi-age workforce and its organization, and the other covers career development in later life, as well as retirement.
Over the past year, I’ve also been involved in several collaborative initiatives within the network, resulting in co-authoring a publication, contributing to a book chapter, and organizing a symposium at an international conference. The current meeting in Olomouc presents a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and further advance our shared research and project development.
Why is it important that such a large international and multidisciplinary group of experts is focusing on the issue of an ageing workforce?
Ageing populations pose a major economic and social challenge for many developed countries. A cross-national, interdisciplinary collaboration allows us to exchange diverse insights from different countries, evidence-based practices, and policy perspectives. It fosters knowledge transfer and joint learning that can help promote employment opportunities for older adults, combat age discrimination, and support inclusive and sustainable social policies.
What is the biggest challenge we will face in connection with the demographic situation and an ageing workforce?
One of the most pressing challenges is the need for older workers to adapt to a rapidly evolving labour market shaped by technological advancement and the rise of AI. Many of these workers entered the workforce decades ago, under very different conditions. Today, they must continuously update their skills and adapt to remain competitive and relevant in the labour market. This is not easy for many of them, and our work is to find ways to help them – from the perspective of employers, governments, and younger colleagues.
What are you most looking forward to during your stay in Olomouc?
Beyond experiencing the city, which I’ve heard is both beautiful and culturally rich, I am especially looking forward to meeting colleagues and friends, both old and new. I hope to deepen existing collaborations, initiate new ones, and engage in meaningful dialogue that will expand our shared knowledge and impact in the field. Especially after COVID, we truly appreciate every opportunity to meet in person.