My Future - Who Cares? Inclusive Society for Older Persons - Marking the International Day of Older Persons - RC's Opening Speech

Dear State Secretary Todorov,

Dear Mr. Vesović,

Dear Mr. Schaller,

Your Excellency Mr. Ebner,

Dear Prof. Radovanović,

Dear Ms. Janković,

Honorable guests,

Thank you for being here today and I extend a warm welcome to the audience. 

The International Day of Older Persons is an opportune moment for us to reflect on our collective responsibility to ensure that older persons are respected, supported, and fully integrated into our communities. This conference serves as a pivotal platform to reaffirm the value and dignity of older persons, whose contributions to society are immeasurable and indispensable.

We stand at a significant point in history. For the first time in its 14-year history, the United Nations’ Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) has adopted a substantive decision addressing the human rights of older persons. The introduction of a potential new UN convention specifically focused on the rights of older persons has emerged as a promising solution.

The question arises: Why do we need a convention? Is this not already covered by other human rights conventions? The Open Working Group highlighted the urgent need to address gaps in the international human rights system that too often leave older persons vulnerable and underserved. The discussions revealed critical areas where protections fall short, both in law and practice. The answer lies in building comprehensive, dedicated protection systems and opportunities for older persons. 

Our goal is to sustain and amplify the momentum generated by this decision. We must build political support, engage with governments, and mobilize public and media attention around the rights of older persons. Continued collaboration between civil society, governments, and the UN system is essential. Furthermore, raising public awareness about the importance of protecting the rights of older persons is critical, ensuring their voices and experiences guide our path forward.

For the first time, recommendations from the OEWG meeting have been presented to the UN General Assembly. This is an opportunity, and Member States must now urge the Human Rights Council to take immediate action and begin drafting a convention. This process must be inclusive, ensuring active and meaningful participation from older persons, their representative organizations, civil society, and national human rights institutions.

In January, the Government of Serbia adopted the National Youth Strategy 2030, a vital document aimed at creating a supportive environment for young people. Additionally, the Strategy on Active and Healthy Aging (2024-2030) was adopted in September 2023, with UNFPA's support. This is a commendable recognition of the importance of demographic issues for the country's development. It's imperative that we maintain our efforts to highlight the rights and needs of both young and older persons, focusing on active and healthy aging and promoting intergenerational cooperation.

Looking forward, the creation of a UN convention on the rights of older persons aligns perfectly with our shared vision under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The promise to "leave no one behind" compels us to not overlook the rights and needs of older people. As we move towards 2030, we must strive for a world where everyone, regardless of age, can live with dignity, freedom, and equality.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to this cause. Together, let us foster a more inclusive society for older persons.