Age discrimination is the most commonly reported form of discrimination in Flanders, with four in ten residents saying they have experienced unfair treatment because of their age,

according to new research by the Flemish Human Rights Institute.

The findings, based on a survey of 2,574 people as well as focus groups and in-depth interviews, show that both younger and older generations face prejudice linked to age — though younger adults report the highest levels.

More than 60% of respondents aged 18 to 24 said they had encountered age-based discrimination, compared with just over 40% of people aged 65 and older. Researchers found that these experiences occur most frequently in the workplace.

Older workers reported being overlooked for training opportunities, pushed aside during redundancies and facing obstacles when applying for jobs. Younger people, meanwhile, cited discrimination during recruitment processes because of limited experience, as well as difficulties in the housing market.

The report also found that age-related disadvantage is more commonly reported by men, people with lower educational qualifications, those on lower incomes and individuals in poor health.

While many respondents associated older people with positive traits such as wisdom and friendliness, stereotypes remain widespread. Nearly seven in ten adults aged 18 to 64 also described older people as frail, vulnerable or interfering.

Researchers identified a lack of interaction between generations as one of the main drivers of ageism. International comparisons included in the study suggest that intergenerational initiatives and awareness campaigns are among the most effective ways to reduce prejudice.

The Flemish Human Rights Institute is urging employers, healthcare professionals and wider society to take more active steps to challenge age-based discrimination. Photo by Karin Beate Nøsterud -/norden.org, Wikimedia commons.