The dramatic and unprecedented increase in the number and proportion of older persons in the world is leading to various political, economic and social consequences and challenges. In developing countries, where by the year 2025, seventy-two per cent of the World’s older persons are expected to be living, this demographic phenomenon will pose a particular challenge. Although a number of developing countries have initiated various innovative and concrete measures aimed at meeting the needs of older persons, there exists an acute shortage of ageing welfare policies. In 2007, the United Nations began its five-year review of progress towards the achievement of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, with a second review and appraisal process finalised in 2012. Since plans for a third global review of the Plan of Action are currently underway, this training programme is highly suited to personnel in the field of ageing who are interested in measuring the implementation of the Plan of Action in their own respective countries.

This multi-disciplinary Training Programme in Social Policy is aimed at discussing the implications of population ageing, underscore the importance of including ageing issues in a country’s development planning and discuss options for policy formulation and programme / services’ implementation. It also aims at providing a broad and up-to-date understanding of the complex and far-reaching consequences of longevity. Participants are aided to evolve and implement appropriate policies, that ensure the quality of life and well-being of older persons in their own country.

The programme consists of lectures, seminars, site visits and workshops.  Topics dealt with include: understanding the commitments of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing as well as the Regional Implementation Strategies; exploring ways of facilitation the participation of all stakeholders namely: governments, civil society, the family, the community and the older persons themselves; collecting and disseminating the best knowledge and evidence based practices available regarding adequate policy responses to population ageing and monitoring progress towards the achievement of the Priority Directions and Recommendations of the Madrid Plan of Action. 

Applications are invited from policy-makers and decision-makers in the field of Ageing in developing countries.  They should be directly engaged in policy and decision-making for older persons in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors in their own country.

Interested persons and organisations may apply by sending the following to: 

1. An application form which is available through the Institute’s website or directly from INIA.
   
2. Proof of proficiency in English.
   
3. A letter of recommendation from the Director of your Organisation.
   
4. A personal letter (giving reasons for attending the course).
   
5. Copies of relevant certificates

INIA might have available a limited number of  partial scholarships. However, since this is not guaranteed, it is in the interest of prospective candidates to secure alternative funding

International Institute on Ageing, United Nations – Malta, 117, St. Paul Street, 

Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA

Telephone: (+356) 21-243044/5/6  l  Telefax : (+356) 21-230248

E-mail: [email protected]  l  Website: http://www.inia.org.mt