Portuguese working group advocacy for intergenerational policies: Challenges and results

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present the benefits and challenges of the advocacy group for intergenerational policies that was created in Portugal in 2012, the European Year of Active Ageing and solidarity between generations. Design/methodology/approach – The group conducted nine closed group meetings scheduled every three months with an average attendance of five members and six public events bringing together researchers, policy makers, practitioners and civil society. Findings – The group was established as a response to the various social changes happening in Portugal as a consequence of the ageing population, low-birth rate and migration, leading to the need to explore new responses which are based both on the need to promote active ageing and intergenerational solidarity and also the importance of family and state support to multigenerational families as a building block to strengthen communities. Research limitations/implications – The paper sets the context of the changing social situation in Portugal, describes the process used through both closed and public meetings to discuss this and then describes the perspectives of four core groups. Practical implications – Only by pooling resources and thinking intergenerationally will we be able to deliver the opportunities and support that the citizens will need to enable them to age well across the life course. Social implications – Drawing on this and the strong tradition of the family in Portugal it seeks to make the case that an intergenerational approach is essential to the countries future social well-being. Originality/value – The creation of the advocacy group created a private space for professionals to explore and strengthen their understanding of the impact of these issues and the potential of approaching policy as an intergenerational issue as one solution.