In a new addition to the Atlas of Demography – an interactive tool by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) – SPARCCLE researchers have released an in-depth analysis of regional variations in socioeconomic vulnerability across the EU, highlighting how demographic, health, and socioeconomic factors shape the capacity of populations to withstand climate extremes.

Focusing on vulnerability indicators, such as age, health, economic status, and housing conditions, the analysis reveals that vulnerability levels differ significantly depending on the degree of urbanisation. Urban and rural areas offer varying levels of protection, which depend on the country and the specific type of vulnerability considered. Rural areas, particularly in Eastern and Southern Europe, are expected to be especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. These regions, with higher concentrations of older populations, chronic illness rates, and lower income levels are more likely to face immediate risks from climate events like floods and heatwaves. Such factors also undermine the long-term resilience of these communities.

In regions with significant ageing populations, the combination of physical frailty and socioeconomic challenges exacerbates vulnerability, expected to make adaptation efforts more difficult. Additionally, areas with poor health indicators, particularly those with high rates of chronic diseases, are less equipped to respond effectively to climate hazards, while low-income households face significant barriers to recovering from extreme climate events.

The findings underscore the need for targeted policies that address the specific vulnerabilities of different demographic groups and regions, ensuring that protective measures are appropriately tailored to the unique needs of each community. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires targeted interventions that consider the unique demographic, health, and economic contexts of each region, thereby ensuring that the most at-risk populations are supported in building resilience against the escalating threats of climate change.

Atlas of Demography (AoD)

The Atlas of Demography is an interactive tool developed by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) that enables policy-makers and citizens to observe, monitor and anticipate demographic challenges. Together with the green and digital transitions, demographic change is the third transformation shaping the future of Europe. A good understanding of how demographic change and the local, regional and national realities interact is key to tailor EU policies to the changing conditions on the ground.