In a historic and pivotal move, the 14th session of the United Nations – Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) has witnessed a groundbreaking consensus among UN member states. Among the array of measures recommended, the most significant is the proposal for a legally binding instrument—a convention—dedicated to promoting, protecting, and ensuring the recognition and realization of all human rights of older persons.
A historic and crucial development unfolded during the 14th session of the United Nations Open Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG), where a groundbreaking consensus was reached among UN member states. One of the key proposals put forward was the idea of a legally binding instrument, specifically a convention, aimed at advocating for, safeguarding and ensuring the acknowledgment and fulfillment of all human rights for older individuals.
The positive outcomes from this session garnered enthusiastic praise from AGE Platform Europe, a prominent supporter of older persons rights. The suggestion for a UN convention represents a significant milestone in global endeavors to protect the dignity and rights of senior citizens.
Ambassador Ana Paula Zacarias from Portugal, who played a pivotal role in shaping these recommendations, underscored the pressing nature of this endeavor by stating, “The time has come for us to agree on launching negotiations at the United Nations regarding a new internationally binding instrument to uphold and advance the human rights of all elderly individuals.”
Charting Progress
The decision to propose a UN convention marks an important turning point, granting authority to the OEWG Chair to present these recommendations to the UN General Assembly for further discussions on enhancing global efforts towards safeguarding and promoting human rights for older populations.
Advocacy Making a Difference;
The dedicated advocacy work of AGE Platform Europe, in partnership with the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People and National Human Rights Institutions, has played a key role in gaining backing, amplifying the voices of elderly individuals and bringing attention to this important issue on a global scale.
Dr. Heidrun Mollenkopf, who serves as President of AGE Platform Europe, stressed the importance of human rights being universal by stating, “Human rights are not limited by age and should be ensured throughout one’s lifetime.” The push for a new UN treaty aims to close existing gaps in protection to ensure that older people receive equal rights and respect as other age groups.
Charting the Path Ahead
As efforts towards a new UN treaty move forward, it is crucial for the EU and its member countries to honor their commitments and put recommendations into action. The expected approval of a new General Assembly resolution in the near future highlights the necessity for concrete steps in drafting a comprehensive UN treaty.
Get Involved
Individuals can support the call for equal rights in old age by encouraging their governments to actively endorse the UN treaty and by signing petitions advocating for older people’s rights. The collective endeavor to bring this treaty to fruition represents an essential stride towards creating a more inclusive and fair future for elderly individuals globally.
