Our common welfare system is increasingly expensive. At the same time, there will be fewer of us to solve the tasks and finance the welfare society of the future. This equation will not balance unless experienced workers – those who have the desire and the ability – continue to work longer.
To be able to finance our future welfare, older workers are part of the solution. But, while the proportion of working population is decreasing, many older workers still leave the workforce too early. The key question is how to motivate experienced workers and leaders to work longer. We need experience in the workforce, and a longer working life will benefit the individuals, the businesses, and the society.
Centre for Extended Working Life provides and disseminates research and knowledge that helps the Social Partners, politicians and leaders make good decisions that benefit both older workers, the labor market and society. We have been doing this for over 50 years, but today it is more important than ever.
We are now approaching a historical shift in Norway, with more elderly people than children and young people. Fortunately, older workers become increasingly ‘younger’, and for many, contributing to society is just as important as early retirement.
This is necessary. Because there is no solution to the welfare of the future without the labor and competence of older workers.