työikäinen

Työikäinen is a Finnish term referring to people who are considered to be part of the labor market or capable of working. In statistical and demographic usage it designates the segment of the population that is neither a child nor a retiree. The most common empirical definition is 15 to 64 years, but some contexts use 18 to 64 or 15 to 69, depending on national pension ages and policy arrangements.

In population and labor market analysis, the työikäinen group is used to measure indicators such as the employment rate, unemployment rate, and labor force participation. It also underpins the calculation of the dependency ratio, which compares the number of dependents (those younger than 15 and older than the working-age limit) with those of working age. The size and characteristics of this group influence economic growth, public finances, and social security systems.

In Finland, as in many other countries, the exact upper and lower bounds of working age can shift with pension reforms and policy changes. Prolonged education, early retirement options, or rises in retirement age can alter the share of the population classified as työikäinen. Demographic trends such as aging, immigration, and changes in labor participation affect the size and composition of this group, drawing policy attention to sustaining a stable balance between workers and dependents.