OECD guidelines for policy measures at regional level.

On 21 October, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) presented guidelines on how to respond to demographic change. The guidelines primarily address the regional effects of demographic change. They address the associated challenges, such as the ageing of society and the decline and spatial shift of the population. This change is putting increasing pressure on public services, infrastructure, local administration and finances. The authors emphasise that these changes require proactive measures at all levels of government. Previous frameworks and strategies have mostly been geared towards growth or stable populations and were not designed for adaptation. The seven guidelines aim to provide national and subnational authorities with practical guidance on responding to changes in population, structure and space in a more forward-looking, coordinated and inclusive manner.

Multi-level governance approach

The guidelines recommend coordinated alignment and cooperation across different levels of government and functional areas, rather than isolated individual measures. The aim is to address complex policy challenges – such as demographic change – in a coherent and effective manner. This also requires the inclusion of non-state actors such as civil society, the business sector, and academia. This multi-level governance approach combines steering, cooperation, and participation within an integrated system. It is particularly relevant for policy areas characterised by territorial differences, such as infrastructure, care, education, or the labour market.

Seven guidelines

The OECD has developed seven key guidelines to assist governments in addressing demographic change. The first two of these recommend forward planning and territorial differentiation Population projections and scenarios should be integrated into policy and development strategies at an early stage and adapted to regional differences. This is intended to ensure that both national and regional levels remain capable of taking effective action in the long term.

The next three guidelines focus on aligning different national levels and policy areas, involving civil society and businesses, and ensuring administrative and human resource capacities. The intention is to facilitate coordination processes, strengthen acceptance and innovation, and build and maintain skills and expertise at a regional level.

The final two guidelines concentrate on adapting financial mechanisms, services, and infrastructure. The objective is to secure the financial base of regions and municipalities particularly affected by demographic change and to align public services flexibly and efficiently with changing population needs.

Mobilising all stakeholders

The guidelines are intended to help governments better manage the complex impacts of demographic change. They aim to ensure that shrinking and ageing regions are not left behind, but are supported through strategic adaptation, innovation, and solidarity. Alongside stronger networks and coordination, the focus is on the people living in these regions. The authors place particular emphasis on ensuring acceptance of the measures shaping this essential process of adaptation. Taking regional and local preferences into account, and enabling innovative regional solutions, is therefore of central importance.

Impact of demographic change on European regions

In its reporting on the impact of demographic change, the European Commission highlights the significant differences in demographic trends between regions. It emphasises the need to address the impact on growth, sustainability, employment, health and social services. Demographic change not only entails an ageing society but also a marked population shift from rural areas to urban centres. According to Eurostat, by 2050, almost three out of five urban regions are expected to experience population growth, while a decline is projected in four out of five rural regions. In view of these regional disparities, the OECD guidelines provide an essential foundation for developing policy strategies to address the consequences of demographic change in Europe.