In a historic and crucial move, the 14th session of the United Nations Open-ended Working Group on Aging (OEWG) witnessed unprecedented consensus among UN member states. Among the set of recommended measures, the most significant is the proposal for a legally binding instrument – a convention – dedicated to the promotion, protection and guarantee of the recognition and realization of all human rights of individuals elderly.
A historic and crucial development occurred at the 14th session of the United Nations Open-ended Working Group on Aging (OEWG), during which an unprecedented consensus was reached among member states of the UN. One of the main proposals put forward was the idea of a legally binding instrument, in particular a convention, aimed at defending, safeguarding and ensuring the recognition and respect of all human rights of older persons.
The positive results of this session drew enthusiastic praise from AGE Europe Platform, a leading advocate for the rights of older people. The suggestion of a United Nations convention represents an important step in global efforts to protect the dignity and rights of older people.
Ambassador Ana Paula Zacarias of Portugal, who played a central role in developing these recommendations, underlined the urgency of this undertaking, saying: “The time has come for us to agree on the launch negotiations at the United Nations on a new binding international instrument to defend and advance the human rights of all older people.
Chart progress
The decision to propose a United Nations convention marks an important turning point, giving the chair of the open-ended working group the authority to present these recommendations to the United Nations General Assembly for further discussions on strengthening global efforts to safeguard and to promote the human rights of older populations. Advocacy makes the difference;
The dedicated advocacy work of the AGE Platform Europe, in partnership with the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older Persons and national human rights institutions, has played a key role in gaining support, amplifying the voices of older people and drawing attention to this important global issue.
Dr Heidrun Mollenkopf, President of the AGE Platform Europe, highlighted the importance of the universal nature of human rights, saying: “Human rights are not limited by age and must be guaranteed throughout life. » The push for a new UN treaty aims to close existing protection gaps to ensure older people have the same rights and respect as other age groups.
Charting the way forward
As efforts towards a new UN treaty advance, it is crucial for the EU and its member countries to honor their commitments and put their recommendations into practice. The expected approval of a new General Assembly resolution in the near future highlights the need for concrete steps in the development of a comprehensive United Nations treaty.
To be involved
People can support the call for equal rights in old age by encouraging their governments to actively support the UN treaty and sign petitions defending the rights of older people. The collective effort to bring this treaty to fruition represents a vital step forward towards creating a more inclusive and just future for older people around the world.
Originally published in The European Times.
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