Active ageing and pensions in the European Union

Pensions and their future sustainability are a central policy concern throughout the European Union. Much of the dominant policy discourse around ageing and pension provision over the last decade has focussed on postponing retirement and prolonging employment. These measures are fundamental to the notion of “active ageing”. Initially this article briefly outlines perceptions of ageing following World War II and how perspectives on ageing changed before the emergence of an active ageing framework is considered. This framework is then explored in relation to the current European pension's context. Finally, it discusses ways in which the active ageing framework can be utilised further to improve the pension situation of older people. This includes the use of a more comprehensive approach to active ageing that encompasses a life-course perspective. This framework should emphasise the potential benefits older people present for society and their well-being.