Comparative Legal and Policy Study on the Re-employment of Older Adults after Retirement: Thailand and France

Abstract

This research presents a comparative examination of legal and policy frameworks regulating the re-entry of older adults into the workforce post-retirement, with a focus on Thailand and France—two countries currently addressing the multifaceted implications of population aging. The primary goals are to identify strengths and limitations inherent in each system and to derive nuanced policy recommendations aimed at improving Thailand's legislative response to demographic shifts. Drawing upon a comprehensive documentary research approach, the study systematically analyzes statutory materials, regulatory directives, policy documents, and empirical labour market data through 2025. Results demonstrate that Thailand’s support mechanisms remain anchored in tax incentives and post-retirement employment opportunities, yet a lack of explicit legislative protection against age discrimination persists. Additional gaps include limited incentives for employers across business sizes and insufficient labour market surveillance infrastructure. By contrast, France has implemented the cumul emploi-retraite model, which allows retirees to simultaneously draw pensions and wages under adaptable policy parameters, reinforced by ongoing pension reform initiatives. This approach is correlated with a substantially higher participation rate among individuals aged 60–64 relative to Thailand, though the French system faces sustainability challenges, regulatory thresholds, waiting periods, and evolving organizational attitudes toward aging workers. Based on these insights, the study advocates for the enactment of clear statutory prohibitions against ageism in employment, the expansion and tailoring of economic incentives for diverse employer groups, the institution of targeted reskilling and upskilling programs for older workers, the enhancement of labour data systems for continuous evaluation, and the thoughtful adaptation of international models such as France’s to align with Thailand’s socio-economic and cultural landscape. These integrated strategies are positioned to strengthen labour market engagement among older adults and foster a responsive transition toward an equitable, resilient aging society.