Abstract
In this paper, we examine how societal aging strains existing models of social support and public pension systems in Asia and discuss recent policy responses by public administrators in light of this challenge. We focus on the social security systems in China, India, and Japan as exemplars since these countries are expected to host a sizeable proportion of the world’s older adults in the next few decades. We first outline the organization of pension systems in each country of interest and briefly describe the current structure of its public pension system. Public pensions encompass both contributory and non-contributory schemes that are organized and administered primarily by the government or semi-state bodies. We analyze how population aging – together with shifts in social norms and institutional changes – has influenced the ability of states, families, and communities to provide for old-age income protection. Finally, recent country-specific pension reforms are discussed. While each nation has pursued unique policy strategies to ensuring income security for its older citizens, general trends are also apparent. To conclude, we summarize the broad shifts in the delivery of social protection within the region and provide a broader discussion of the implications of population ageing in Asia for social administration.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Public Policy and Public Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Population Aging, Pensions
