Population aging in terms of generational cohorts in the context of labor productivity in the Slovak Republic

Abstract

The aging of the population is the main global demographic trend of the 21st century and one of the main factors in the formation of supply in the labor market. This study focuses on the aging of the population, which, in the context of the labor market, represents a problem for countries to sustain economic growth. The aim is to determine, based on the analysis of available statistical data, the impact of population aging on labor productivity and the labor market in the Slovak Republic. It also seeks to define how to mitigate the effects of population aging on maintaining economic growth and social stability without raising the retirement age. The study analyzed statistical indicators, utilizing OECD population projections and linking them to macroeconomic indicators (GDP, employment). Assuming GDP growth (3%) and labor productivity (2%) per year while maintaining 70% employment in comparison with population growth presented in the OECD forecasts, there will be approximately 367,000 unfilled jobs on the labor market in the Slovak Republic. Proposed solutions include pension reforms, investment in innovation and education for increased productivity, support for families to raise birth rates, simplified employment of workers from third countries, and improved working conditions for women. Addressing women’s working conditions can help compensate for the shortage in the aging workforce when combined with other solutions.