ZAGREB, 27 April (Hina) - The Pensioners’ Party (SU), marking Global Intergenerational Week (24-30 April), called for respect for older people’s experience and for tackling prejudice, stressing that intergenerational solidarity underpins an inclusive, sustainable society.
Spokeswoman Vesna Horvat warned against portraying older people as a burden, describing such views as ageism that must be confronted. She noted that, according to the World Health Organization, ageism is widespread and often normalised, unlike racism or sexism.
SU said combining perspectives across generations is key to addressing challenges such as climate change, social justice and global uncertainty. Citing UN documents, Horvat stressed the need to harness older generations’ experience in crises, alongside younger people’s strengths in innovation and technology.
She warned that cooperation is underused despite demographic pressures, with projections showing older people will account for 27% of Europe’s population by 2040, while Croatia is already at 25%.
Horvat highlighted poverty and low pensions as major issues, noting Croatia ranks near the bottom in Europe in pension-to-wage ratios. Official statistics show 36% of pensioners are at risk of poverty, rising to over 60% among single-person households, undermining both dignity and social integration.
She said an existing anti-poverty programme is not being effectively implemented and that conditions are worsening. Urgent action is needed at all levels, from ministries to local authorities, to promote social inclusion and participation in activities such as sport and culture, as loneliness also harms health.
The Ombudsman has similarly warned of ageism, loneliness, rising poverty risks due to low incomes and higher living costs, lack of information, digital exclusion, abuse, family breakdown and shortcomings in care homes and healthcare, including dismissive attitudes by doctors.
As part of the initiative, SU will mark European Day of Intergenerational Solidarity on 29 April in Karlovac with a panel titled "Dignified ageing YES, youth imperative NO". The event launches the "Web of Generations" project, featuring six workshops for older people, involving young volunteers, running until 10 November to promote stronger and more resilient communities.
