On April 3, 2025, the United Nations Human Rights Council set forth an intergovernmental effort to create an international treaty dedicated to the rights of older people, marking a vital victory for human rights amidst global uncertainty. This resolution highlights the myriad violations older individuals face, from violence and discrimination to exclusion from essential services and climate action.
Bridget Sleap of Human Rights Watch remarked on the significance of this treaty, noting it as a critical win for all, not just older adults. The endorsement from various states underscores a commitment to the multilateral human rights framework, a beacon of hope in troubling times.
Despite existing protections, notable gaps persist within current international frameworks, prompting advocacy from organisations like the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People (GAROP). Comprising over 400 civil bodies, GAROP has tirelessly campaigned since 2011 to amplify the rights and voices of the elderly worldwide.
The UN Working Group on Ageing acknowledged these challenges in 2024 across 14 sessions, advocating for a new treaty to solidify essential protections for older people. Responding to these needs, a coalition of countries, including Argentina and Brazil, have actively pushed for this initiative, valuing input from older people and civil society in the Human Rights Council.
The inaugural meeting of the intergovernmental working group is expected before 2025 concludes. It will welcome participation from all UN member states, and it’s imperative that older individuals and their representatives engage meaningfully in these discussions, ensuring their voices are heard.
Sleap emphasises that human rights must span a lifetime. “Rights in older age should be guaranteed as at any other time in our lives,” she stated, asserting that ongoing attention to issues like age discrimination is crucial. Decades of advocacy have paved the way for this treaty, yet the journey toward its fruition continues.
On April 3, 2025, the UN Human Rights Council commenced drafting an international treaty to secure the rights of older people, marking a crucial step forward in human rights advocacy. The resolution responds to severe violations faced by older individuals globally and comes after significant efforts by civil society and countries committed to this cause. The working group will involve extensive participation from member states and older people’s representatives to ensure comprehensive dialogue and advocacy.
The UN’s initiative for an international treaty on the rights of older people heralds a significant shift towards recognising and addressing the unique challenges faced by this demographic. With the support of various nations and civil organisations advocating since 2011, this movement seeks to fill critical gaps in human rights protections, ensuring that older individuals are treated with dignity and respect throughout their lives. As the intergovernmental working group takes shape, meaningful engagement from older people is essential to realise the full potential of this landmark achievement.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
