Demographic shifts challenge labor markets and social systems in Chile and Spain

Demographic shifts are presenting significant challenges in Chile and Spain as populations age and birth rates decline.

In Chile, the 2025 National Survey on Inclusion and Exclusion of Older Persons reveals that 84% of respondents believe the country is poorly prepared to meet the needs of a growing elderly population. This marks a significant increase from 59.5% in 2008. With fertility rates dropping to 0.99 children per woman in 2025, the country faces rapid changes in family structures, healthcare needs, and pension systems.

In the Spanish region of Castilla y León, projections from the National Statistics Institute (INE) indicate a major impact on the labor market. Between 2030 and 2040, the region is expected to lose 121,302 people of working age, while the population over 64 is projected to increase by 106,945. Experts suggest that labor inclusion—specifically mobilizing senior professionals and people with disabilities—will be essential to maintaining economic productivity and addressing professional shortages.