José Manuel Bolieiro calls for strategic reflection on active ageing and migration for demographic solutions in the Azores - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the opening session of the International Seminar "Migrations, Ageing and Diasporas - Challenges and Perspectives," an event organised by the University of the Azores. On the occasion, he stressed the growing importance of demography and immigration for the future of the Azores.

The event marks the end of the research project "Identities and Life Paths of Azorean Elderly Emigrants to Canada (Identities 65+)." It brings together renowned academics and experts to analyse the impact of migration and population ageing, particularly in the context of Azorean emigration to Canada and the United States.

In his speech, José Manuel Bolieiro noted the importance of a new demographic reality, where senior citizens play an increasingly active role in society.

"Today, we have youth in ageing," he said, stressing that many senior citizens have a remarkable capacity and dynamics, participating actively in social, economic and intellectual life, and voluntary activities.

This change emphasises the need for in-depth strategic reflection on adapting public policies to meet the needs of an ageing yet still young population.

"Understanding this demographic pattern is fundamental to developing strategic policies in crucial areas such as solidarity, health, education and, in particular, promoting an active retirement life," said José Manuel Bolieiro.

He also defended that ageing should be regarded as an opportunity to develop a "senior economy" that values the experience and contribution of older people while ensuring social and economic sustainability for the nine Azorean islands.

In addition to the issue of ageing, the President of the Government emphasised the vital importance of immigration as a demographic balancing factor in the Azores.

Immigration has been essential in addressing the demographic challenges in the Azores, contributing to social and economic stability. The President of the Government highlighted the cosmopolitan and hospitable tradition of the Azores throughout the centuries.

"The immigrants who choose our islands have made a significant contribution, bringing not only population balance but also an intercultural richness that is an integral part of our history," stressed the head of the Azorean Government.

The seminar was attended by 13 personalities from the Azorean diaspora and four national experts, who have analysed migratory phenomena and the challenges associated with ageing in contemporary societies in greater depth. The debates focused on the contours of Azorean emigration, particularly to Canada and the USA, and its implications for the Region's cultural identity, social dynamics and economy.

José Manuel Bolieiro also called for solutions to be found to harness the opportunities provided by the new demographics and migration.

"We have to develop policies based on a solid understanding of our demographic and migratory reality, aimed at guaranteeing a sustainable future for the Azores, where all generations can contribute to our collective development," he said.

The event was attended by the Rector of the University of the Azores, Susana Mira Leal, the Mayor of Ponta Delgada, Pedro do Nascimento Cabral, and the President of the Organising Committee, Professor Teresa Medeiros.

In promoting reflection on migration and ageing, this seminar aims to establish the groundwork for creating political strategies that effectively address the social and economic changes the islands are experiencing.