As populations in Eastern Europe and Central Asia are ageing rapidly, there is increased attention on the loneliness and social isolation of older people. The COVID-19 pandemic, and the measures taken by governments to contain it, have disproportionately affected older people, among other population groups, and have exacerbated social isolation and loneliness for many.

This survey report, therefore, comes at an opportune time. It is based on a survey conducted during the pandemic and thus captures the effects COVID-19 has had on loneliness and social isolation. It is published at a time when, perhaps, there is greater receptiveness among policymakers and the general public to improve the well-being and respect for the rights of older people as countries emerge from the pandemic and aim to build back better.

With this report, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and researchers at University College London hope to contribute to a better understanding of the risk factors leading to loneliness and social exclusion.