Member States, UN officials, and civil society leaders convened at UN Headquarters on Wednesday to advocate for age-inclusive societies, emphasizing that older persons should no longer be marginalized. The event marked the International Day of Older Persons and called for policies that ensure dignity, security, and meaningful opportunities for older individuals.
“Every older person has the right to age with dignity, security, and access to opportunities that enrich their lives. These are not privileges—they are human rights,” said Arjanita Elezaj, one of the event’s organizers. Discussions focused on enhancing civic participation, healthcare, and housing for older adults while giving them a stronger voice in policymaking.
With 1.2 billion people aged 60 or over today—a figure expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050—UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the urgency of safeguarding their rights and recognizing their contributions. The number of people aged 80+ is projected to surpass the number of infants by the mid-2030s, underscoring the need for proactive, multigenerational strategies.
Jeanette Takamura, Dean Emerita at Columbia University School of Social Work, emphasized the importance of intergenerational collaboration. “Social movements are most impactful when all generations are included. Older and younger persons must learn from each other to drive meaningful change,” she said.
The event underscored a growing global movement to build societies that value, empower, and include older generations, ensuring that their experiences and insights continue to shape communities worldwide.
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