General Scenario for the whole series

Since the Virtual Roundtable Series “Mainstreaming Knowledge on Ageing” started in 2022, the partners and participants have successfully taken stock on the current scenario of ageing and the human rights of older persons in the first year, and on access to justice, labor markets, political participation, health and social care services, as well as cultural and leisure activities in the second year.

This year, the series will be focused on quality of life for older persons. This initiative is aligned with the efforts envisaged at “Our Common Agenda” to strengthen and accelerate multilateral agreements, particularly the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, towards making a tangible difference in people’s lives; in the same vein, it considers relevant aspects on the protection of the human rights of older persons.

In our series, we view national, regional, and international standards, as well as public policies, programs, and other initiatives as key learning elements. In the same vein, we consider that heightening awareness of ICT/digital accessibility implementation from design is relevant to better understand how older persons can benefit from digital products and services as means to actively participate in political, cultural, and socio economic activities. By involving diverse stakeholders as co-sponsors, experts, speakers, and attendees, we aim to enhance discussions and build stronger synergies towards achieving our common goal.

The human rights of older persons and frontier issues, such as the demographic worldwide scenario, gender, human mobility, digital divide, and climate change, will continue as the heart of our discussions.

In this endeavour, UNITAR and its International Training Centres for Authorities and Leaders -CIFAL Global Network-, UNDESA, UNFPA, IOM, UNWOMEN, UNHCR, WHO, OHCHR, ITU and ILO; together with the Group of Friends of the Human Rights of Older Persons UN Geneva; the Global Initiative on Ageing Foundation, GIA; the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuses; the International Longevity Centre; and the NGO Committee on Ageing Geneva; and the Harvard Law School Project on Disability, have joined efforts to put together this initiative as a contribution to inclusive learning in the framework of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing.

Background of the 4th event

Raising awareness about the intersectionality of discrimination faced by older persons is essential for creating more inclusive and supportive societies for all. This group often experience discrimination not just based on age -ageism- but also due to factors like gender, race, disability, and socioeconomic status. Highlighting these overlapping forms of discrimination helps people understand that ageing is not a uniform experience and that many older persons face compounded challenges. Awareness is the first step toward advocating for policies and programs that address these multifaceted issues. Furthermore, bringing attention to these intersectional challenges breaks down harmful stereotypes about older persons, who are often viewed as a homogeneous group. By promoting awareness, society can develop a more nuanced understanding of ageing, recognizing the diverse realities within this demographic, and creating more targeted interventions that meet their varied needs. In this regard, it is also important to building empathy and solidarity. When people understand the multiple ways, older persons are marginalized, they are more likely to support efforts that protect their rights and well-being. Awareness campaigns and educational programs can mobilize communities to challenge discrimination against older persons and advocate for more inclusive laws and services that consider intersectional identities. Moreover, when intersectionality is recognized, policies can be designed to address the specific needs of various subgroups within the older population, such as older persons with disabilities or older immigrants. This approach ensures that resources and support systems are distributed more equitably, improving the overall quality of life for all older adults. Without awareness, policies risk being too generic, leaving some of the most vulnerable older adults without the assistance they need. Better understanding the intersectionality of discrimination faced by older persons aligns with global human rights initiatives. It contributes to change the mindset to foster older person’s inclusion, regardless of their background or identity, so they are seen as full members of society with rights to dignity, equality, and autonomy. Joint efforts in this regard can help shape a society where older persons are not only valued but also actively supported, including through the proper use of technologies by promoting a more just and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of age

This first event, will take place on Thursday, at 09:30 NY/ 15:30 CET, on the 17th of October, 2024.