Gender Disparities and Population Aging in Developing Asia: A Life Course and Policy Perspective

Abstract

This commentary reflects on the webinar “Gender Disparities and Population Aging in Developing Asia” held on 8 May 2025, which brought together experts from Thailand, Indonesia, Iran, and Sri Lanka. Using a life course framework, the discussions highlighted the cumulative disadvantages older women face, including economic insecurity, limited pension access, and unpaid caregiving responsibilities. This note synthesizes key insights from the presentations, situates them within the broader demographic literature, and offers regional policy reflections on advancing gender equity in later life.