Spain faces labor shortage as demographic shifts threaten workforce

Spain faces a significant demographic challenge as projections from the INE indicate the active workforce could shrink by 5.4% over the next two decades. This shift is driven by record-low birth rates and the mass retirement of the baby boom generation. By 2050, it is estimated that 1.8 million young professionals will be lost, and one in three active workers will be between 50 and 64 years old.

To mitigate these economic risks, experts from Fundación Adecco emphasize the need to combat ageism and leverage senior talent. Strategies include updating digital skills, implementing flexible working hours, and creating gradual retirement transitions to maintain competitiveness and support social protection systems.