Biden is reportedly using shorter stairs to sidestep ageism. Millions of other Americans face the same workplace problems.
Biden is reportedly using shorter stairs to sidestep ageism. Millions ... Morningstar
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President Biden Takes Precautions to Address Age Concerns
By Alessandra Malito
Introduction
President Biden is taking measures to reduce the risk of viral moments that critics could use against him due to his age, according to an analysis by NBC News. This article explores the actions taken by President Biden and highlights the broader issue of aging workers in the workforce.
President Biden’s Precautions
Since falling during an Air Force Academy graduation, President Biden has been using shorter stairs 84% of the times he boards and exits his plane, compared to the previous 37%, as reported by NBC News. He has also missed some social dinners during foreign trips and has been using note cards. These precautions are aimed at addressing concerns about his age and ensuring his safety.
Age Concerns in Politics
President Biden’s age has been a topic of debate, both during his re-election campaign and when he ran in 2020. However, he is not the only politician facing age concerns. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 81, recently caused concern when he froze mid-sentence for almost 20 seconds during a press conference. Age is a significant factor in politics and can impact the performance and perception of politicians.
Aging Workforce
Workers aged 55 and older are projected to make up a quarter of the U.S. workforce by 2031, according to a Bain & Co. analysis. This demographic shift is not unique to the United States, as similar trends can be observed in countries like Italy and Japan. The aging workforce brings valuable experience to the job but also faces discrimination during employment and hiring processes.
Age Discrimination in the Workplace
An AARP survey revealed that almost two-thirds of adults aged 50 and older believe age discrimination occurs in the workplace. This discrimination can manifest as negative comments about their age or being passed over for promotions. Ageism also affects retirees looking to re-enter the labor force, with more than four in 10 retirees stating that their age poses a problem when seeking employment.
President Biden’s Response
During a news conference at the White House, President Biden acknowledged voters’ concerns about his age and stated that he respects their scrutiny. He emphasized that he had carefully considered his age before deciding to run for office and expressed excitement about the future.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being – President Biden’s precautions aim to ensure his safety and well-being, aligning with this SDG.
- Goal 5: Gender Equality – The article does not directly address gender equality.
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The aging workforce and age discrimination in the workplace are relevant to this SDG.
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities – Age discrimination highlights the need to address inequalities based on age.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Biden’s precautions to address age concerns reflect the broader issue of an aging workforce and age discrimination. As workers aged 55 and older become a significant portion of the workforce, it is crucial to ensure their inclusion and combat ageism. The Sustainable Development Goals provide a framework for addressing these challenges and promoting a more equitable and inclusive society.
Sources
- Alessandra Malito – MarketWatch
- NBC News
- Bain & Co.
- AARP
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
07-29-23 1521ET
Copyright (c) 2023 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
The article discusses the age-related concerns surrounding President Biden and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, as well as the challenges faced by older workers in the job market. These issues are connected to SDG 3, which focuses on promoting good health and well-being for all ages. The article also addresses SDG 8, which aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth and decent work for all, as it discusses the discrimination faced by older workers in the hiring process and workplace. Additionally, SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries, is relevant as it highlights the age discrimination faced by older workers.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
- SDG 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
- SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard.
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are SDG 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality and promote well-being, SDG 8.5, which focuses on achieving decent work for all, and SDG 10.3, which aims to reduce inequalities and eliminate discriminatory practices.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.4: Premature mortality rate from non-communicable diseases
- Indicator for SDG 8.5: Employment-to-population ratio
- Indicator for SDG 10.3: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months
The article does not explicitly mention indicators, but based on the identified targets, the following indicators can be used to measure progress: premature mortality rate from non-communicable diseases for SDG 3.4, employment-to-population ratio for SDG 8.5, and the proportion of the population reporting discrimination or harassment for SDG 10.3.
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. | Indicator: Premature mortality rate from non-communicable diseases |
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | Target 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value. | Indicator: Employment-to-population ratio |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard. | Indicator: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months |
This table summarizes the findings from analyzing the article, listing the relevant SDGs, their corresponding targets, and the specific indicators identified.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: morningstar.com
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