Aging Societies Vs. Youthful Nations
Some countries are filled with the energy of a young, growing population, while others move at a steadier pace, shaped by an aging majority. Ever wonder where retirees far outnumber the young or where fresh ambition fuels the future? First, we’ll explore nations where senior citizens take center stage, then shift to those where youth are driving change.
1. Monaco
Towering above all, Monaco has an astounding 36% of its population aged 65 and older—the highest percentage of seniors in the world! But who wouldn’t want to spend their golden years in this glittering Riviera paradise? With a pristine coastline and world-class healthcare, Monaco is a playground for the elite.
2. Japan
With 28.2% of its population aged 65 and above, Japan is a nation where longevity and innovation go hand in hand. Thanks to advanced healthcare, a nutritious diet, and a deep cultural respect for elders, many Japanese citizens have lived and maintained an active lifestyle for the past 85 years.
3. Portugal
Portugal’s aging population reflects declining birth rates and youth emigration, leaving behind a nation where retirees reign supreme. However, this is no ordinary retirement spot—it’s a land of cobblestone streets and some of the world’s finest wines, and it's no wonder its senior population has surged past the 20% mark, according to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB).
4. Finland
In Finland, where 21.9% of the population is 65 and older, per PRB, aging is more about embracing life with Nordic efficiency. Advanced elderly care and generous social welfare ensure that retirees enjoy saunas and the midnight sun without worry. For instance, cities like Helsinki are designed for senior-friendly living.
5. Italy
With its sun-drenched piazzas and love for la dolce vita, Italy is also home to one of Europe’s oldest populations, with 22.8% of its citizens above the age of 65, according to PRB. While traditional family ties keep nonna and nonno well cared for, economic constraints make state support a growing challenge.
6. Greece
Fiscal instability has long been a challenge for Greece, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of pensions and elderly support systems. With 21.8% of the population aged 65 and older, the family remains the strongest safety net, as extended relatives play a vital role in elderly care.
7. Germany
Standing at 21.4%, Germany’s aging population underscores low birth rates and increasing life expectancy, shaping the country’s future in subtle but significant ways. As one of the world's best pension and healthcare systems, elder care is well-managed. However, challenges such as rising costs and an aging workforce are straining these systems.
8. Bulgaria
This country faces a rapidly aging population as younger generations seek opportunities abroad. To counter labor shortages, the government incentivizes expatriates to return and strengthen elderly welfare policies. As a result, 21.3% of Bulgaria’s population is now 65 and older, and rural villages, once bustling, now echo with nostalgia.
9. Croatia
The Croatian government is tackling its aging population with pension reforms, healthcare modernization, and policy shifts to attract skilled migrants. Yet, with 21% of the population aged 65 and older, the effects of youth emigration and low birth rates are hard to miss.
10. France
According to PRB, France has a 20.8% elderly population that benefits from strong social welfare and pension schemes, ensuring a comfortable retirement for many. Unlike some neighbors, higher birth rates help soften the impact, keeping the workforce more balanced.
Rodrigo Kugnharski on Unsplash
Having explored nations adapting to an aging population, let's look at others experiencing the opposite.
1. Niger
With a staggeringly young median age of just 15 years, according to Statista, Niger is a nation where youth energy fuels daily life. A soaring fertility rate of 6.8 births per woman keeps the population growing rapidly. However, this fast expansion pressures infrastructure and education systems as classrooms overflow and streets buzz with activity.
2. Chad
Half the population of Chad is 15.7, making youth the dominant force in its bustling markets and growing cities. Initiatives like the Skills Development for Youth Employability Project provide vocational training to harness their potential, while youth entrepreneurship programs equip young business owners with digital tools.
Ken Doerr from Chester, UK on Wikimedia
3. Uganda
A booming birth rate keeps Uganda’s population growing quickly, with a median age of just 16 years, per Statista. This youthful dominance brings challenges as employment scarcity remains a pressing issue. To address this, the government has introduced initiatives like the Youth Startup Academy Uganda, which continues to support young entrepreneurs by providing resources and mentorship.
4. Burkina Faso
Like many other countries on this list, half the population in Burkina Faso is 17.2 years or younger, per World Atlas. Although agriculture remains central to daily life, a growing wave of urban migration fuels industrial growth and new economic opportunities. Investment in technical training and infrastructure is helping young people turn ideas into action.
Jeff Attaway from Dakar, Senegal on Wikimedia
5. Mali
At 16.2 years, according to World Atlas data, Mali’s incredibly young population is full of energy and untapped potential. While education access and job opportunities remain hurdles, the country’s vast farmland and gold reserves offer room for growth. Despite political instability, young Malians are finding ways to modernize farming, explore tech, and keep traditions alive.
6. Zambia
In Zambia, the future is young, and its median age of 16.7 years is proof of that, as reported by World Atlas. As the agricultural sector thrives and the mining industry expands, opportunities continue to grow for a generation full of ambition. Also, organizations like the Thrive Africa Initiative encourage creativity in the arts.
7. Burundi
To harness its youthful energy, Burundi invests in initiatives like YELI-Burundi, which develops young leaders. Also, IBJ Youth Initiatives provides legal aid for incarcerated youth, ensuring second chances. With a median age of just 17.0 years, these efforts shape a generation ready to build a stronger future.
8. Mozambique
Because half of its population is 17.1 years or younger, Mozambique's youthful demographic is a source of vitality and a catalyst for growth. As a result, in February 2025, the government allocated approximately €15 million (approximately $15.7 million) to the Fund for the Financing of Local Economic Development (FDEL), supporting youth-led initiatives.
9. South Sudan
With a median age of 17.1, South Sudan is a nation bursting with youthful energy, but it also comes with challenges. Years of conflict have made it tough for many young people to access education and find stable jobs. Therefore, opportunities like the Youth Enterprise Development and Capacity Building (YEDCB) Project boost job opportunities and fuel entrepreneurship.
10. Angola
As high birth rates and rapid urbanization reshape the nation, Angola and its median age of 16 years, according to Statista, is becoming a place where youth energy drives progress. Although oil wealth fuels big dreams by funding education and development, poverty and limited school access still pose challenges.
