Ageing and Climate Change: A Critical Development Priority

Ageing and Climate Change: A Critical Development Priority

The CPF Foundation attended the 9 th Monthly Discussion Forum on Ageing (MDFA) which brought together experts, policymakers, and civil society actors to discuss the intersection of ageing and climate change, a pressing but often overlooked challenge. Participants in the forum highlighted that vulnerability is not an inherent condition of older persons; rather, it is produced by systems that fail to account for the realities of ageing in a changing climate.

Key mentions included the need to recognize older persons not just as beneficiaries but as active contributors to resilience. Their knowledge, experience, and social networks are invaluable resources that can strengthen climate and development strategies when properly leveraged.

At the end of the day, the forum highlighted  several priorities:

• Systemic transformation to ensure policies and programs effectively respond to ageing populations.

• Inclusive governance that actively engages older persons in decision-making.

• Integrated, dignity-centered programming that addresses both climate and social needs.

The Forum concluded with a call to shift from reactive responses to intentional, forward-looking actions that place older persons at the heart of climate resilience and sustainable development.