A critical aging rate was recorded in 11 districts of Moldova. According to the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection and Family, the aging rate in the 11 districts, which are mainly located in the north of the country, is 16% of the population. The data were presented in a roundtable meeting, Info-Prim Neo reports. The 11 districts are Briceni, Drochia, Rascani, Ocnita, Edinet, Soroca, Floresti, Soldanesti, Glodeni, Falesti and Balti municipality. The districts that haven’t reached the grave aging rate of 12% of the population are Cantemir, Ialoveni and Criuleni. This rate in the municipality of Chisinau is 12.3%. Aging is a global phenomenon that is aggravated by the negative demographic trends, including in Moldova. The persons older than 50 represent 27.9% of Moldova’s population. Minister of Labor Valentina Buliga said the combating of discrimination against elderly persons is a major objective for the Ministry. The working pensioners contribute to the social insurance fund for persons who are unable to work. Discussions are held on possible reforms that would ensure a balance between the percentage of working young people and of working elderly persons. By a decision of the European Commission, 2012 was declared the European Year for Active Aging and Solidarity between Generations. The main goals of this year are to sensitize society to the aging problems and to join efforts in promoting an environment friendly to the elderly people.