International Conference and Workshop

This event is being organized in collaboration with  (1) CSOs & NGOs & organizations supporting CSOs/NGOs: Kenan Foundation Asia, Foundation for Older Persons’ Development (FOPDEV), Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Alliance on Longevity In Asia- Pacific (AL-AP), HelpAge International; Torrens Foundation (Access4U); ASEM Global Ageing Center (2) Academic sector and public sectors: Foundation of Thai Gerontology Research and Development Institute (TGRI), Institute for Population and Social Research (IPSR), National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) and Labor Research and Coordination Research Unit at College of Population Studies, Chulalongkorn University (CU-ColLaR); and (3) International organizations: United Nations Population Fund. 

Three key organizations have been involved since the programme's drafting: Kenan Foundation Asia, the Foundation for Older Persons’ Development (FOPDEV), and the Institute for Population and Social Research (IPSR).

1. Background

Population longevity and declining birth rates have significantly altered family structures and intergenerational relationships. This demographic shift is happening rapidly in many countries, driven by improvements in healthcare, reduced fertility rates, and increased average lifespan (United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, 2022). As demographic structures evolve, so do socio-economic and family structures, social and individual behaviours.

The trend of smaller household sizes is a global phenomenon driven by economic development, urbanization, and cultural changes. According to data from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2022), the average household size in Thailand decreased from 3.69 people in 2000 to 2.84 people in 2019. This was accompanied by a significant increase in single-member households, which more than doubled from 8.7%to 21.59%, and a notable rise in households with 2-3 members from 38.2% to 48.62%. Vietnam exhibits similar trends, with the average household size decreasing from 4.54 in 2000 to 3.44 in 2020, and single-member households more than doubling from 3.78% to 10.52%. In India, the average household size fell from 5.29 in 2001 to 4.38 in 2020, with a slight increase in single-member households from 3.93%to 5.11% and households with 2-3members rising from 19.9% to 30.31%. In Kenya, the average household size decreased from 5.07 in 2000 to 3.75 in 2020, with a significant rise in single-member households from 3.29%to 19.43%. Even in the United States, where household sizes were already small, the average household size decreased from 2.59 in 2000 to 2.49in 2015, with a slight increase in single-member households and a decline in larger households.

This trend of smaller households coincides with changes in family structures. Data from the United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2022b) indicates that in Thailand, the proportion of female-headed households increased from 25.58%in 2000 to 40.01% in 2019. This significant change highlights the evolving social structure, with more women becoming household heads. Additionally, the proportion of households with members under 20 years old and over 60 increased from 14.23% to 16.07%, underscoring the importance of intergenerational support and interaction within households. In the United States, the proportion of female-headed households significantly increased from 34.9% in 2000 to 49.77% in 2015, indicating progressive changes in family structures and gender roles. There was also a slight increase in households with members of different age groups from 2.75% to 3.57%, indicating a changing population that may require more intergenerational policies and programs. In Kenya, female-headed households increased from 27.44% in 2000 to 31.01% in 2020, and households with members under 20 and over 60 years old increased from 11.67% to 12.64%.

These trends reflect changing social roles as household sizes shrink and family composition becomes more complex, necessitating support systems to accommodate diverse family structures. This includes promoting intergenerational cooperation, family policies, and support measures. Moreover, the proportion of households with both young and elderly members underscores the importance of comprehensive policies supporting child and elder care, fostering positive intergenerational relationships, and balancing work and family life for the working-age population, often termed the "Sandwich Generation." Policies that promote cross-generational learning and support, adapt to the increasing economic role of women, and address the challenges of diverse household structures are crucial. Recognizing these changes and responding with comprehensive support measures is key to building a resilient and adaptive society that thrives amid family transformations.

Past studies suggest that intergenerational connections enhance family communication and understanding, fostering mutual support and happiness for all family members. Respecting and accepting family differences, including cultural and belief aspects, encourages social participation and contributes to a happy and high-quality life for everyone. Additionally, the happiness of the elderly is linked to family and community. Understanding these dynamics helps address issues such as loneliness and mental health. Research on intergenerational relationships and family dynamics in this context is vital for designing social policies.

Promoting international collaboration through the International Forum on Ageing enhances exchange. It strengthens partnerships, leading to improved quality of life for the elderly and preparing all ages for ageing societies at national and international levels. International forums facilitate knowledge exchange, best practices, and research among policymakers, academics, practitioners, and NGO representatives, fostering global understanding and cooperation.

Exchanging demographic trends, family dynamics, and intergenerational relationships is crucial for understanding the current landscape of ageing populations and family structures. This evidence-based approach aids policymakers, researchers, and practitioners in developing informed strategies and ensuring policies address specific societal challenges and opportunities. Understanding these challenges and opportunities prepares stakeholders for future social needs and helps evaluate the effectiveness of current policies and programs aimed at supporting ageing populations and promoting intergenerational harmony. Insights into best practices guide the refinement and development of more effective policies, fostering innovative solutions and strategies adaptable to different contexts, enhancing strategic cooperation and networks among participants, promoting ongoing collaboration, and supporting initiatives addressing ageing population challenges. This also aids in creating sustainable international cooperation frameworks, pooling resources, expertise, and efforts to effectively address global demographic challenges, and developing clear, actionable plans for international and national efforts, leading to coordinated and comprehensive approaches to enhancing the well-being of all generations within society.

2. Objectives

This conference promotes international academic cooperation on ageing, providing a platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences. It aims to disseminate practical knowledge to develop projects and policies, and to build collaborative networks to study strategies for enhancing the potential of people of all ages. The specific objectives are listed below.

1) Promote international academic cooperation on ageing between domestic and international partners and networks. It creates a platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences, thereby strengthening collaboration and joint efforts.

2) Disseminate and exchange academic and practical knowledge. Beyond fostering understanding and cooperation, the conference focuses on sharing knowledge that can be applied to develop projects and policies to improve the quality of life and welfare of the elderly.

3) Build collaborative networks and promote the study of strategies to develop the potential of people of all ages, aligning with the current aging situation context.

3. Format and language

The conference will be conducted in English and designed to be interactive, combining dialogues and discussions in each section to ensure an inclusive workshop environment. This will be a hybrid event, with sessions available via Zoom from 08:00 to 17:30 hours (UTC+7) from September 4-6, 2024. The venue is the Arnoma Grand Hotel, Bangkok (08:30-17:30, UTC+7), and it is a hybrid arrangement.

4.  Expected Participants

The conference will be a hybrid event, combining in-person and remote sessions. A total of 175 strategic participants will be divided into 125 on-site and 50 online participants, categorized into four groups as follows:

4.1 Strategic Partners

Strategic partners will include representatives from relevant organizations, including government agencies, civil society organizations, non-profits, academic institutions, and international organizations involved in ageing populations, elderly care, and family dynamics. This group will also encompass private sector innovators promoting intergenerational approaches and policy advocates for inclusive societies. The strategic partners will be characterized by geographic diversity, stakeholder diversity, and a commitment to long-term collaboration and cross-sector cooperation. Experience in developing, implementing, or evaluating policies and programs for elderly well-being and intergenerational harmony will be prioritized.

Participants include, for example, Access4U (Australia), ASEM Global Ageing Center, HelpAge International, Tsao Foundation (Singapore), Alliance on Longevity in Asia-Pacific (ALAP), UNESCAP, Kenan Asia, UNFPA, various UN organizations, ADB, JICA, FOPDEV, Japan Center for International Exchange, ASEAN Secretariat, and ASEAN+3 country representatives.

4.2 Renowned Researchers and Academic Groups

This category is open to researchers and experts in aging populations, family dynamics, or intergenerational relationships who have significant experience in policy development or interventions. The aim is to create a high-quality network that can further expand.

Invited researchers include those from, for example, the Asian Population Association (APA) and scholars from institutions such as the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) in Austria and the National University of Singapore (NUS).

This group is also open to interested researchers from universities worldwide or those with policy experience. Participants may come from various fields such as sociology, psychology, gerontology, public health, social work, and policy development.

4.3 Thai Government Agencies

Invited organizations will include representatives from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Ministry of Labor, Ministry of Interior, National Elderly Assembly, National Commission on Older Persons, and other relevant agencies.

4.4 Organizing Committee

This group will comprise representatives from the Department of Older Persons and the event organizers.

5. Expectations from participants

5.1 Active Participation and Engagement

We kindly request all participants to engage throughout the conference actively. Your contributions during discussions, sharing of experiences, and collaborative efforts are essential in creating a dynamic and enriching environment. This active involvement will support meaningful dialogue and foster innovative outcomes. Please note that all discussions will be conducted in English.

5.2 Commitment to Sustainable Outcomes

We encourage participants to focus on generating sustainable outcomes from the conference discussions. Your insights and collaborative actions are vital for creating lasting impacts on projects and policies that address aging-related challenges and opportunities in diverse contexts.

5.3 Collaboration and Networking

We hope participants will seize opportunities to build and strengthen collaborative networks. By sharing your expertise and learning from others, we aim to create a community committed to advancing strategies that enhance the well-being and potential of individuals of all ages.

6. Contact person

Associate Professor Ruttiya Bhula-or, Ph.D,  Project head at Chulalongkorn University

Email: Ruttiya.b@chula.ac.th

Please also cc’d Pichayanin.c@chula.ac.th

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Registration Deadline: By 2 September 2024, 12:00 PM (Bangkok time).

 https://bit.ly/interconreg2024

Onsite Participation: By registration and invitation only. 

Online Participation: Details will be provided via email upon registration.

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Draft Programme

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Day1:   4 September 2024

12:30 - 13:00 Registration (30 mins) Participant registration and distribution of materials

13:00 – 13:05 (5 mins) Opening Clip 

13:05 – 13:35 Opening Ceremony (30 mins)

Welcome speech by the organizers

- Director General of the Department of Older Persons, Ms.   Ramrung Worawat, Director General, Department of Older Persons (DOP),   Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Thailand (5 mins)

- President of Chulalongkorn University (5 min)

- Mr. Anukul Peedkaew, Permanent   Secretariat of Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) (10 mins)

Photo session (10 mins)

13:35– 14:35 Keynote Address (60 mins)

Keynote speech

· Representative of UNESCAP

"Enhancing Family Well-Being in Asia and the Pacific:   Addressing Policy Challenges and Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity"   (TBC)

Ms. Sabine Henning, Chief, Sustainable   Demographic Transition Section, Social Development Division, Economic and   Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

Existing international policies and frameworks supporting family   well-being in Asia and the Pacific, challenges in policy implementation and   proposed solutions, and future strategies for enhancing intergenerational   synergy through regional cooperation. (15   mins)

· Representative of UNFPA

Empowering Generations: Advancing Inclusive Policies Through a   Life-Cycle Approach to Population Development"

Dr. Julitta Onabanjo, UNFPA Representative for Malaysia and   Country Director for Thailand, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)   (Online)

The critical importance of inclusive dialogue and   intergenerational solidarity in shaping population and development policies.   She will underscore the need to empower women, girls, and diverse youth,   while also advocating for an intergenerational and life-cycle approach to   aging. This approach is essential for crafting policies that foster an   inclusive society, ensuring that the needs and contributions of all age   groups are recognized and integrated into sustainable development strategies.   (15 mins)

· Representative of CSOs

“Promoting Intergenerational Bonding in Asia”

Mr. Quyen Tran, Older People Association Development   Advisor, HelpAge International.

The role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in community   development and family support, obstacles faced by CSOs in implementing   family support programs, success stories from communities benefiting from CSO   initiatives, and the importance of collaboration between CSOs, governments,   and other stakeholders to achieve inclusive societies. (15 mins)

· Representative of Academia

“Rethinking Population Ageing: Beyond Crisis Narratives”

Professor Aris Ananta, PhD. at Universitas   Indonesia, Former President of Asian Population Association (15 mins)

Challenges the dominant crisis-oriented narratives   about population ageing, advocating for a different perspective that   emphasizes the opportunities and proactive strategies required to meet the   challenges and possible benefits of an older population.

14:35 – 14:45 Tea/Coffee Break (10 mins) Networking and relaxation

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Theme I Older Persons and Development

Focal point: FOPDEV

Co focal point: Alliance on Longevity in Asia-Pacific (ALAP),   ASEAN Secretariat, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

14:45 - 16:15 Session 1: Panel discussion & Working group (90 mins)

Theme "Integrative policies for inclusive development using   an intergenerational approach"

Moderator: Ms. Usa Khiewrord, Head of International Department, FOPDEV

Panel (45 mins): Examines inclusive development policies, emphasizing   intergenerational collaboration from local to global levels for sustainable,   mutual support across ages.

· Professor Bussarawan (Puk)   Teerawichitchainan, PhD Department   of Sociology and Co-Director of the Centre for Family and Population   Research, National University of Singapore (NUS) (Online)

· Mr. Adhipat Warangkanand, Project Coordinator on   Population and Development, United Nations Population Funds (UNFPA)

· ASEAN Secretariat representative

· Professor M Niaz Asadullah,   DPhil (Oxon), Visiting   Professor of Economics, University of Reading, UK; Honorary Professorial   Fellow, North South University, Bangladesh; Visiting Professor, Bangladesh   University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Bangladesh; Research Fellow of the IZA Institute   of Labor Economics; Global Labor Organization (GLO) Lead   for South-East Asia.

Group discussion (15 mins)

Facilitator of the group work *

· Professor Sergey Ryazantsev,   PhD, IPSR, Mahidol University, Lead   facilitator

· Ms. Donhathai   Sutassanamarlee, Senior Consultant,   Social Inclusion, Kenan Asia, Co-lead facilitator

Groups sharing (30 mins)

* Online discussion will be led by Assist. Prof. Chadatan Osatis, Ph.D, CPS &  Dr.I-Chun Chen Visiting Scholar Harvard University .

16:15 - 17:45 Session 2: Panel discussion & Working group (90 mins)

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Theme "Challenges and Opportunities in Ageing Societies:   Models of Intergenerational Support in Families and Households"

Moderator: Ms Sanju Thapa Magar Chief Executive Officer Alliance on   Longevity in Asia-Pacific (ALAP) (Ageing Nepal)

Panel (45 mins): Explores aging society dynamics, showcasing   successful intergenerational support models in families, addressing   caregiving, financial, and emotional needs

· Professor Giang   Thanh Long, PhD, Faculty of   Economics, National Economics University &  Senior Researcher,   Institute of Social and Medical Studies (Vietnam), Affiliate Research   Fellow, Oxford Institute of Population Ageing, University of Oxford (UK)

· Senior Assistant Professor   Evi Nurvidya Arifin, PhD, Universiti   Brunei Darussalam

· Mr. Richard Bernhard, Executive Director, Kenan Foundation Asia

· Mr. Thanakorn Phromyos, CEO of Young Happy

Group discussion (30 mins)

Facilitator of the group work*

· Mr Yusuke Miyoshi (PhD   candidate), University of Tokyo,   Lead facilitator

· Ms   Chonticha Asavanirandorn, PhD,   College of Population Studies

Groups sharing (20 mins)

17:45 – 18.00 Break

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18:00 – 19:30 Welcoming and reception (VIP) Invited only

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Day 2: 5 September 2024

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08:30 - 09:00 Registration (30 mins) Continued registration

Theme 2 Advancing Health and Well-being into Old Age (Life   course perspective)

Focal point: IPSR, Mahidol University

Co-focal point: Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Foundation of   Thai Gerontology Research and Development institute

09:00 – 10:30 Session 3: Panel discussion & Working group (90 mins)

Theme "Policies and Practices in Promoting Healthy Ageing   to Ensure Health and Well-Being"

Moderator: Associate Professor Jongjit Rittirong,   PhD. Institute for Population and   Social Research (IPSR), Mahidol University

Panel (45 mins): Discuss effective policies and practices to   promote healthy aging, ensuring the overall health and well-being of older   adults.

Panelist

· Ms. Ritu Sadana, PhD., Head, Ageing and Health, World Health Organization   (Online)

· Associate Professor   Tawanchai Jirapramukpitak, M.D., Ph.D. Institute   for Population and Social Research (IPSR), Mahidol University

· Assistant Professor Dararatt   Anantanasuwong, PhD., Graduate School of Development Economics, Director of the Center for Aging Society Research, National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA-CASR), Principal Investigator (PI) of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Thailand (HART)

· Mr.   Kobchai Songsrisange, PhD., Senior Programme Officer, Japan International   Cooperation Agency (JICA)

· Ms. Yang Shenghui, Associate researcher, China Population and   Development Research Center (CPDRC)

Group discussion (30 mins)

Facilitator of the group work

·  Ms. Truc Ngoc Hoang Dang, PhD,  Institute for Population and Social Research (IPSR), Mahidol University

Groups sharing (20 mins)

10:30 - 10:45 Tea/Coffee Break (15 mins) Networking and relaxation

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10:45 - 12:15 Session 4: Panel discussion & Working group (90 mins)

Theme "Innovative Practices in Elderly Care and Wellness   & Designing Intergenerational Programs for Health and Wellness"

Moderator: Associate Professor   Chalermpol Chamchan, PhD, Institute   for Population and Social Research (IPSR), Mahidol University

Panel (45 mins): Explores innovative elderly care practices  and intergenerational program designs aimed at enhancing health and wellness   for all ages.

Panelist

· Professor Yasuhiko Saito, PhD.,  College of Economics, Nihon University, Japan

· Associate Professor Myo   Nyein Aung, PhD., Department of   Global Health Research, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan

· Associate Professor Sutthida   Chuanwan, PhD., Institute for Population and Social Research (IPSR),   Mahidol University

· Associate Professor Pornpen Worasitha, PhD., NIDA

Group discussion (30 mins)

Facilitator of the group work*

· Professor M Niaz Asadullah,   DPhil (Oxon), Visiting   Professor of Economics, University of Reading, UK; Honorary Professorial   Fellow, North South University, Bangladesh; Visiting Professor, Bangladesh   University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Bangladesh; Research Fellow of the IZA Institute   of Labor Economics; Global Labor Organization (GLO) Lead   for South-East Asia.

Groups sharing (20 mins)

12:15 - 13:15 Lunch Break (15 mins) Networking and dining

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Theme 3 Creating Enabling and Supportive Environments

Focal point: Kenan Asia

Co focal point: ASEM   Global Ageing Center

13:15 – 14:45

Session 5: Panel discussion & Working   group

(90 mins)

Theme "Building Inclusive Environments for All Ages:   Sharing Successful Models of Intergenerational Support Systems and Design   Ways Forward”

Moderator: Ms. Sarisa Kanoktanyarat,   Senior Consultant - Social Inclusion, Partnerships, Kenan Asia

Panel (45 mins): Successful   intergenerational support models and strategies for creating inclusive   environments for all ages, fostering collaboration and innovation

Panelist

· Professor Eric Fong, PhD, Chair Professor in Sociology, Associate Dean   (T & L), Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Hong Kong

· Mr. Omar Siddique, Head of Unit, Sustainable Urban Development at   United Nations ESCAP

· Professor Trirat Jarutach, PhD, Faculty of Architecture, UDDC

· Mr. Phusit Prakongsai,   M.D., Secretary   General, Foundation of Thai Gerontology Research and Development   institute (TGRI)

Group discussion (30 mins)

Facilitator of the group work*

· Trieu Thi Phuong, PhD, Institute of Labour-Invalids and Social Affairs,   Ministry of Labour-Invalids and Social Affairs, Vietnam

· Ms Pavitra Sakulchaimongkol, Senior Consultant, Social Inclusion, Kenan Asia

Groups sharing (20 mins)

14:45 - 15:00 Tea/Coffee Break (15 mins)  Networking and relaxation 

15:00 – 16:30  Session 6: Panel discussion & Working   group (90 mins)

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Theme "Designing and Strategizing Intergenerational   Programs to Enabling and Supportive Environments toward an Inclusive Society.”

Moderator: Geun KOH, Ph.D., Team Lead, ASEM Global Ageing Center

Panel (45 mins): Focus on creating and strategizing   intergenerational programs that promote supportive environments, enhancing   well-being across generations.

Panelist

· Associate   Professor Ruttiya Bhula-or,  PhD, College of Population Studies

· Ms Catherine Miller,   CEO/Director, Torrens   Foundation (Access4U), South   Australia.

· Chutaporn Amrapala,   PhD., College of Population   Studies, Research member of ChulaARI Project, awarded project of THE Awards   Asia 2024.

· Mr Kittipan Kongsawatkiat, Chief Sustainability Officer, ENEGIST Social   Enterprise Company Limited

Group discussion (30 mins)

Facilitator of the group work

· Ms Pailin Chuayok, Project Manager of Health, Aging, and Retirement in   Thailand (HART), National Institute of Development Administration

Groups sharing (20 mins)

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Moving beyond discussion into actionable steps

16:30 – 17:30  Session 7: Strengthen Collaboration (60 mins)

Initiate outcomes-based projects for the future

“Explore potential projects and funding opportunities for the   future, moving beyond discussion into actionable steps” (Preliminary   discussion)

World café arrangement

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Day 3: 6 September 2024

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08:30 - 09:00 Registration (30 mins) Final day registration

09:00 - 10:30 Session 8: Debrief the meeting and   recommendations

“A summary of the meeting and outline key recommendations.”

Moderated by:

· Assoc. Prof. Ruttiya   Bhula-or, PhD, CPS

· Chonticha Asavanirandorn,   PhD, CPS

· Prof. Dr.Sergey Ryazantsev,   IPSR, CPS

· Asst. Prof. Dr. Dararatt Anantanasuwong,   CASR, NIDA

· And cohosts

Comments and suggestions from all the participants

10:30 - 11:30 Working group

"Synthesizing Insights and Future Directions"

- Potential   projects and funding opportunities for the future, moving beyond discussion   into actionable steps (The final round of discussion)

In room tea/coffee- break

11:30- 12:30 “Presentation of the recommendations and possible collaboration   (Revised)”

12:30 - 14:00 Lunch

14:00 - 14:30 Concluding & commitment & closing remarks of the   conference

14:30 – 15.00 Tea/Coffee Break   & Networking

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Note:

On Day 3, from 15:00 to 16:00, an academic meeting with invited participants will take place. The focus will be on discussing the next steps, specifically bringing together key academics to plan and strategize future academic collaboration, but not limited to, the following areas: (1) publication, (2) exchange, and (3) teaching collaboration.

* The online working group discussions are led by Assist. Prof. Chadatan Osatis, Ph.D. (CPS), I-Chun Chen, Ph.D. (Visiting Scholar, Harvard University), and Mr. Jintatat Chaiyapuck.

** Mr. Kullachart Prathumchai and Ms. Ketchuda Rodngern provide technical assistance throughout the project. Ms. Daria Turavinina, Ms. Sana Ullah, Ms. Pyone Thidar Aung, Ms. Jie Min Low, and Ms. Nalat Chillananda, Ms. Maretalinia Linia, and Ms. Tahmina Sultana.