UN Human Rights Council adopts decision to begin drafting an international legally binding instrument on the human rights of older persons


A UN Convention on the rights of older persons would benefit all generations

Claudia Mahler, the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons emphasises that today’s younger people are tomorrow’s older generations. A strong legal instrument would address ageism and discrimination for everyone. 

“On 3 April 2025, the UN Human Rights Council adopted a landmark decision to establish an intergovernmental working group that will draft an international legally binding instrument on the human rights of older persons.

This is a big leap forward for efforts to create #AWorld4AllAges, because we know from the UN Global report on ageism that policies and laws work to combat ageism.

For example, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child helps protect childhood as a special time for children to grow, learn, play, develop and flourish with dignity. A similar instrument to protect the rights of older persons doesn’t yet exist at the global level. But by developing one, we can better ensure we can live free from stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination at all ages – including older age.

A big congratulations to the Member States, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders that contributed to this milestone! Stay tuned and subscribed for updates – and to learn about upcoming opportunities to get involved.” – source aworld4allages.org

A group of elderly seniors engaging in a discussion at the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament.

Posted on 2nd July 2025 by Sharon