Mr. President
 

On behalf of my colleagues in 35 countries banded together in the International Federation for Family Development (IFFD), I bring you greetings and wish you every success in the work of this Second World Assembly on Ageing.

IFFD works on behalf of strengthening family life and, for over 25 years, has conducted parent - and grandparent - training courses all the regions of the world. These programs are focused on improving parenting skills and developing true dialogue within the family, between Moms and Dads, among the children, and with the grandparents, whose role in fostering a healthy family atmosphere can be so very beneficial.

We have heard repeatedly during the week just ended the often passionate pleas for strong family life from the aged and other participants in the NGO Forum. Their desires reflect our long experience in IFFD with thousands of families in many cultures, north and south. Grandparents are an encyclopedia of knowledge and an infinite source of unconditional love which contributes to healthy, happy children within the family. And the children, when involved in intergenerational dialogue and perhaps even care giving, experience increased self-esteem and a sense of history and purpose from their relationships with the aged.

Mr. President

Three contemporary General Assemblies have themes which connect directly to the functioning of the family, which has been recognized since the founding of the United Nations as the fundamental unit of society. This World Assembly on Ageing provides an opportunity to restudy the importance of the role of Ageing and the opportunities for grandparents to contribute positively to families and communities. To manifest mutual respect for the aged, medical care should seek the restoration of function and the reduction of inhuman pain. The Special Session on Children - interrupted by the tragic events of September 1 la' in my country - will resume its work next month in New York. During these meetings and their preparation sessions, we have heard again and again that true peace must begin within each person and thereby, within the basic cell of society, the family. Programs in favor of children's rights do well to fully engage the family as the primary actor, unsurpassed in effectiveness. The family, the parents and the grandparents are closest to the unique needs and potentials in each of the children and freely contribute their wisdom and energy. The outcome document for the Special Session on should adequately recognize and protect the role of the family - including the grandparents - for the sake of the child. Finally, we are happy to be closely coupled with the Family Unit of the Division for Social Policy and Development in planning for the Tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004, which should certainly incorporate the positive role of grandparents in family life.

In his message of greeting to the WAA, the President of the Spanish Government observed, "...it is important to assist families and to recognise their role in society." IFFD is pleased to second this strong challenge and pledges to continue to work for a stronger and more peaceful society through strong families.