To build a true ‘Union of Equality’ in Europe, we must actively combat ageism and dismantle the barriers that prevent people of all ages from enjoying equal rights and opportunities. Ageism affects access to work, healthcare, education, and civic participation, both in young and old age.

AGE Platform Europe leads the call to mainstream age equality into all EU policies (https://www.age-platform.eu/areas-of-work/age-equality/), ensuring that the needs and aspirations of an ageing society are met.

To this goal, a EU Action Plan to Combat Ageism would underpin the EU's Strategy on Intergenerational Fairness: based on human rights, intersectionality, equality and solidarity within and between generations, it would mainstream age equality across all policy areas, challenge negative stereotypes through education and public campaigns, and empower older people as active rights holders. It would also foster intergenerational programs, strengthen legal protections, and support research to inform effective policies.

By leveraging the expertise of AGE Platform Europe and the innovative approaches of EU research, such as the FutuRes project (https://futu-res.eu/), the EU can turn ageing into an opportunity-building a resilient, inclusive society where everyone thrives, regardless of age.