As Mauritius faces the inevitable demographic shifts brought on by an aging population, the government’s proposal to extend the retirement age from 60 to 65 is presented as a necessary financial measure. While it may appear to be a pragmatic response to mounting pension costs and a shrinking workforce, this approach alone ignores the deeper social, economic and moral questions that we, as a nation, must confront.
The stark reality is that our population is aging rapidly. According to official statistics, the proportion of citizens aged 65 and over is projected to double in the coming decades, pushing the dependency ratio to alarming levels. The burden on our social systems — healthcare, pensions and social services — is set to swell, threatening the stability of our future. Yet, simply pushing back the retirement age without addressing the root causes of dependency and hardship risks creating a society where the vulnerable are left behind.
It’s high time we stop viewing dependency as an inevitable fate and start fostering resilience, dignity and independence among our people. Instead of merely prolonging working years for some, we should be investing in our citizens’ well-being, education and economic empowerment from a young age. It’s about creating a society where everyone, regardless of age or background, has the opportunity to live a decent, fulfilling life.
Beyond the necessary reforms in legal and social policies, there is an urgent need to shift our focus from just providing financial support to empowering individuals through skill development and education. This approach strengthens societal resilience by equipping people with the tools they need to adapt, innovate and contribute meaningfully throughout their lives. Investing in lifelong learning and personal development is crucial to building a future where dependency is minimized and self-sufficiency is maximized.
The push to raise the retirement age must be accompanied by concrete measures: improving working conditions so that those in physically demanding jobs are not forced to work beyond their capacity; increasing salaries to match the cost of living; expanding access to quality healthcare; and providing lifelong learning opportunities that enable all citizens to adapt and thrive in an evolving economy.
Furthermore, the government must recognize that economic growth alone does not guarantee social progress. We need policies that reduce inequality, promote fair wages and ensure social safety nets are robust enough to support those who need it most. We cannot afford to become a nation where dependence on state aid becomes the norm, nor should we accept a future where meaningful employment, fair pay and quality healthcare are privileges rather than rights.
It is also essential to rethink our approach to social support systems, making them more inclusive and accessible. A society that values its elders and invests in their health and dignity will be stronger and more resilient. Encouraging responsible family dynamics, promoting gender equality and fostering community-based support are vital steps toward a healthier, more balanced society.
The time has come for collective action — government, civil society and individuals — to wake up and realize that dependency is not destiny. We must advocate for policies that serve the people, not just the economy. We need to prioritize a future where every Mauritian can enjoy a decent life, free from unnecessary hardship and inequality.
Let us demand a shift from mere survival to true empowerment. Let us push for reforms that increase wages, improve social services and make life more manageable for all. And let us also focus on empowering our citizens through education and skills development, ensuring that dependency does not define our future. Only then can we build a society where aging is embraced with dignity, where every citizen’s contribution is valued and where dependence becomes a thing of the past.
The future of Mauritius depends on it. The question is: are we ready to take the necessary steps today to secure a better tomorrow?