In a historic move, the United Nations Human Rights Council has unanimously adopted a resolution to begin drafting a new international convention focused on the rights of older persons. The decision, made overnight in Geneva, establishes an intergovernmental working group that will begin work on a legally binding instrument to better protect the rights and dignity of older people worldwide.
The resolution, passed by consensus, is being hailed as a major victory by advocates and human rights organisations who have long campaigned for stronger global protections for ageing populations. Currently, there is no specific international treaty that comprehensively addresses the unique rights and challenges faced by older persons.
Marcus Riley, Chairman, Ballycare and Representative to the United States with Global Ageing Network commented on social media.
“This landmark decision is the result of dedicated advocacy by many people over many years. Obviously a huge process to come but it is wonderful that efforts are now translating to outcomes and ultimately the improvement to the lives of older people around the world.”
Marcus Riley
The new convention aims to fill that gap, creating clear legal obligations for governments to ensure older people are treated with dignity, free from discrimination and abuse, and able to fully participate in society.
The move also comes amid growing concern over ageism and the marginalisation of older people in many parts of the world, particularly in healthcare, employment, and emergency responses such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Rights groups say the absence of legal safeguards has left many older persons vulnerable to neglect and systemic discrimination.
Human Rights Watch welcomed the resolution, calling it a critical step toward ending what it described as “chronic under-protection” of older people’s rights.
The working group’s mandate will include consulting with member states, civil society organisations, and older people themselves to draft the contents of the convention. It will also consider lessons from existing human rights treaties, such as those for women, children, and persons with disabilities.
While the process of drafting and adopting a new UN convention could take years, advocates are optimistic.
