ECONOMIC ASPECTS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AGE INEQUALITY IN THE NEW REALITY

Abstract

The aim of article is to present the contemporary development of society and related economic inequality. Emphasis is placed on age inequality due to its economic aspects and characteristics. The main focus of the article is on the new reality of economic slowdown and its adverse effect on another contemporary trend – the growing number of retired persons. The results of the study identified a trend which is similar across most EU member states - population aging and inequality of the retired people. Unlike the other member states, old-age inequality in Bulgaria is affected by additional factors, such as the ongoing economic transition, social reforms, and European integration processes.