Working-Age Population
Candlefocus EditorThe definition of working-age population is largely political and variable from country to country. As mentioned, in some areas the age ranges may be extended to include those younger than 15 or even 10 years old so as to include students who may pick up part-time work or internships. Other countries may determine the age range to be exclusive to those of legal working age or those who are mature enough to hold a full-time, responsible job.
Often, this population is determined and separated based on the local labor laws, which can often vary by region. As a general rule, labor laws will protect minors, such as prohibiting the employment of those of a certain age, such as 14 or younger in some counties, or the registration of a certain age, such as 18 years old, with the government and labor departments. In the United States, the Age Discrimination Employment Act protects workers over the age of 40 and the legislation prohibits organizations from engaging in age-based discrimination and unfair hiring practices.
The concept of the working-age population is often employed by governments, organizations, and economists alike as it serves as a definition to pinpoint the number of economically productive individuals within a given region. The figure serves as an indicator of the age-based labor force in the region and can provide a scenic overview of the characteristics of the population. It is widely used in official statics, including census data and population projections, as a means to indicate the number of available and potential workers.
It is important to note that the working-age population forms only a percentage of the overall population and is distinct from the working population of a certain region, which takes into account the overall number of working individuals, regardless of age. For example, the working population may also include individuals who are employed but not considered within the working-age range, such as retired individuals or those who suffer from illnesses or disabilities.