Recently, a government in Eastern Europe (I will not name names) rejected the People Power foresight game I designed on the futures of demographics and canceled the planned workshop. Their reason?
They have already decided that government policy should focus on how to encourage women to have more children.
🚫 Why this stance is misguided:
Narrow focus: Relying solely on increasing birth rates overlooks the multifaceted nature of demographic changes, including aging populations, migration, disruptive technologies, and shifting family structures, to name but a few. Plus no government, authoritarian or egalitarian, has been able to sustainably increase birthrates long term.
Women's rights: Imposing societal expectations on women to have more children infringes on their rights and autonomy. True progress respects individual choices and promotes gender equality.
Missed opportunities: Rejecting innovative tools like People Power limits the ability to explore diverse, sustainable, transdisciplinary perspectives and solutions for a range of demographic challenges now and in the future.
🎲 So, why play the game?:
Holistic approach: The game encourages a comprehensive understanding of demographic trends, considering political, cultural, and technological factors.
Engagement and inclusion: It fosters inclusive dialogue, empowering diverse voices to contribute to shaping the future.
Proactive planning: By anticipating emerging issues and potential scenarios, policymakers can develop more resilient and adaptive strategies.
It's crucial that we embrace forward-thinking approaches that respect individual rights and promote sustainable solutions. The People Power foresight game offers a valuable platform for this, but you have to play it to find out!
Let's champion innovative tools and inclusive dialogue for a better, more equitable future! 💪✨ Follow us at People Power Foresight 🙏
#Foresight #futures #Demographics #PeoplePower