Intergenerational inequality lies at the core of inequality in the Arab region. It reflects the transmission of advantage and disadvantage across generations through wealth, housing, education, employment and access to basic services. While it affects both younger and older generations, it will shape the prospects of future generations if current trends remain unaddressed.
The Arab region has one of the world’s youngest populations, yet many young people experience delayed and constrained transitions into adulthood. They are increasingly excluded from decent employment, home ownership and political participation, leading to frustration, migration, declining trust and social unrest. At the same time, rising life expectancy, combined with inadequate pension and social protection systems, leaves many older persons without income security, care or protection.
Today’s policy choices will determine the path of inequality for future generations. Climate change, natural resource management, debt sustainability and investments in human capital may either entrench existing inequalities or support a more equal and sustainable future.
The Pact for the Future, adopted in September 2024, calls for renewed commitment to long-term thinking, intergenerational solidarity and the protection of future generations. By promoting sustainable urban development, equitable access to resources and climate resilience, the Pact directly addresses intergenerational inequality and seeks to ensure that present decisions do not compromise the rights, opportunities and living conditions of those yet to come. It encourages governments to adopt evidence-based, forward-looking planning frameworks and policies, such as Oman Vision 2040, to safeguard natural resources, invest in inclusive infrastructure and advance social justice for both current and future communities.
The choices made today will determine whether future generations inherit opportunity or crisis. Addressing intergenerational inequality therefore requires long-term solutions that confront its root causes, rather than short-term measures that merely alleviate its symptoms.
