Consultant on technology, artificial intelligence and population ageing

Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Sustainable Demographic Transition Section or her designate, the consultant is required to: (a) produce a substantive analytical and policy paper on technology, AI and population ageing in Asia and the Pacific; (b) contribute to the design and delivery of the thematic track at the Regional Conference on Population Ageing in China (October 2026); and (c) prepare associated policy communications outputs to inform ESCAP member States on evidence-based, rights-based and inclusive approaches to harnessing technology for population ageing in the region.

Home country and/or Remotely

04/05/26-30/11/26

The Asia-Pacific region is undergoing rapid and significant demographic changes, such as changes in population age structures, driven by falling fertility and increased life expectancy. As a result, the region as a whole is ageing rapidly. The share of persons aged 65 and over is projected to increase from 10.8 per cent in 2025 to nearly 19.4 per cent by 2050. This demographic shift is intersecting with an unprecedented technological revolution encompassing digital connectivity, big data, the Internet of Things, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). The convergence of these two megatrends carries profound implications for health and care systems, labour markets, social protection, independent living and intergenerational solidarity across the region. There are challenges and opportunities related to population ageing and technologies, which require forward-looking policies that promote active and inclusive ageing to encourage and value the contribution of older persons and to ensure that they live longer and healthier lives. ESCAP has been working on digital inclusion, digital literacy and connectivity as prerequisites for older persons’ meaningful participation in digital societies. Significant knowledge gaps remain, however, particularly regarding: the role of AI and emerging technologies in supporting active and healthy ageing; ethical and governance dimensions of technology for older persons; the care economy and assistive technologies; intergenerational and life-course dimensions of digital engagement; and the policy architecture needed to make technology work equitably across diverse country contexts in Asia and the Pacific. The Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA) provides comprehensive policy guidance. Through the outcome document of the Fourth Asia-Pacific Review and Appraisal of MIPAA, held in 2022, ESCAP member States committed to a set of priority measures to accelerate implementation of MIPAA as well as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. ESCAP requires a consultant to conduct research and draft a substantive thematic paper on the intersection of population ageing, digital technologies and artificial intelligence in Asia and the Pacific. This paper will serve as a key analytical and policy input to the Fifth Asia-Pacific Review and Appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA) and the upcoming 2027 Asia-Pacific Population Ageing Report. In addition, ESCAP will co-lead a thematic track on “Technology, Artificial Intelligence and Ageing” at the Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing to be held in October 2026 in Hangzhou, China, under the conference theme "Integration, Innovation and Sustainability: A Shared Agenda for Population Ageing." This track aims to harness digital technologies and AI to support extended working lives, service delivery, care systems and independent living, while ensuring inclusion, ethics and good governance. The consultant will play a central substantive role in shaping and delivering this track.

Advanced degree in social sciences, public policy, gerontology, information and communication technology policy, or a closely related field, with demonstrated focus on ageing, digital technology, or technology governance. Background in population ageing issues, digital transformation and/or technology policy and sustainable development required. Experience in research, policy analysis and advisory work required. Prior engagement with UN system work an advantage. Background and experience working on Asia-Pacific issues strongly preferred. Solid understanding of digital technologies relevant to ageing, including AI, assistive technologies, telehealth and digital platforms. Knowledge of ethical, rights-based and governance dimensions of technology for older persons. Familiarity with ESCAP research products on ageing and digital development an asset. Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical evidence into clear and actionable policy recommendations. Capacity to work across analytical domains: demographic, social, economic and technological.

Fluency in both oral and written English required for this assignment. Excellent drafting skills required. Familiarity with UN Editorial Guidelines required. Excellent analytical, synthesis and writing skills.

Not available.