Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly

11 April 2022

 

Excellencies,

Distinguished delegates,

I thank Her Excellency, Maria del Carmen Squeff, Permanent Representative of Argentina and Chair of the Open-ended Working Group on Ageing, for the invitation to address the opening of its 12th session.

The mandate of this working group addresses the key factors necessary for protecting the human rights of all older persons. This session is focused on preserving their economic security and harnessing their contribution to sustainable development.

Today, we are plagued by many challenges that have undermined our efforts to ensure the full respect, protection and promotion of human rights, and derailed us from the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These challenges are growing exponentially, and their detrimental effects are being felt acutely by our most vulnerable populations, especially older persons.

Excellencies,

The number of older persons aged 65 and over is projected to double to 1.5 billion in 2050. While longevity is a manifestation of the progress achieved in human development and health over the last decades, the demographic shift has also shed light on the lack of adequate protection mechanisms to address the situation of older persons.

Therefore, as we endeavor to rebuild sustainably from the pandemic, and strengthen economic resilience, we must prioritize protecting and providing for older persons. To that end, we must use and strengthen the existing international frameworks and multilateral instruments at our disposal.

Additionally, recovering better requires us to tap into the wisdom and experience of the elderly. Older persons represent a diverse group that are key development actors and partners. We need to unleash their potential, harness their knowledge, and make use of their invaluable contributions to our societies.

Excellencies,

The COVID-19 crisis widened many of the gaps in protection suffered by older persons. As a result, they continue to endure challenges such as discrimination, lack of social protection, limited access to health services, limited economic opportunities, inadequate pensions, and human rights abuses.

Moreover, the current international legal framework remains fragmented and incomplete to address specific protection gaps for older persons to enjoy their human rights.

The challenges are further compounded by the increasing risks of poverty and economic insecurity at an older age. Not only is protecting the rights and well-being of older persons a moral obligation. It is a practical necessity, rooted in enlightened self-interest, and in the knowledge that we all age.

Excellencies,

People are living longer lives. Between 2020 and 2050, the number of older persons is projected to more than double. As our decade of action now shifts to a decade of recovery, we must lay the foundation for a more resilient, compassionate future.

In this regard, an ageing population presents important opportunities.

An opportunity to refocus on strengthening human rights for the elderly.

An opportunity to ensure that older persons meaningfully and effectively participate in their communities.

And an opportunity to revitalize our commitment to the 2030 Agenda, with stronger protections for the elderly – including protection from poverty and ageism.

Excellencies,

My Presidency of hope has promised to deliver for people by putting the rights of all at the core. This is the only way we can build prosperous and resilient economies.

Let’s foster healthy ageing and improve the lives of older people and their families and communities. In accordance with the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, let’s renew our focus on the four action areas:

  • Creating age-friendly environments;
  • Fostering the abilities of older people by doing away with the stereotypes associated with age;
  • Delivering integrated and affordable health services to older people; and
  • Providing access to long-term care to ensure a life with dignity.

I also call on Member States to support the work of the Open-ended Working Group by strengthening the protection of the human rights of older persons, including by considering the feasibility of further instruments and measures.

We should all be able to aspire to a life of dignity, free from fear and want in our old age. This must never be a privilege, but a common right for us all.

I thank you.