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 5th event

Throughout the years, the role and protection of older persons in times of peace and war has triggered several impacts and challenges at individual and collective levels. While their needs and strengths have barely been made visible, limited actions have been taken to meaningfully address different realities in all regions.

Peacetime has not necessarily been availed as an opportunity to include this group as one of the priorities in the States and other actors’ agendas. Wartime has shown that their situation has even worsen although they can assume a protective role of some members of their families because younger adults go to combat or there is sexual violence against women as a weapon of war.

The social and economic impact has also placed a lot of burden in people reaching the retirement age. On the one hand, those who have lost their jobs will find it increasingly difficult to re-join the workforce, considering age related stigma and discrimination. In such cases, older persons may face financial difficulties, being forced to anticipate their retirement, or make use of their pensions in advance.

In cases of migration, refugee or displacement, the social impact of physical distancing can have broader effects in the elderly, increase vulnerabilities and neglect. For example, older persons living in institutions and care homes have faced a growing number of mistreatment and neglect. Similarly, they can face higher risk of domestic violence and abuse. Social isolation can also increase depression and anxiety, creating physical and emotional impacts for the well-being of older people.



Face to difficult circumstances, the perseverance and resilience of older persons is admirable. Their role in the society has been prominent, not just as part of the health staff in the frontline, but also as caregivers for their grandchildren during school lockdowns as a source of courage and patience for facing difficult circumstances.

Learning about the protection of older persons fosters a society that values all generations and promotes social cohesion. When they are safeguarded and empowered, communities benefit from their wisdom, experience, and cultural continuity. This understanding encourages intergenerational solidarity, which strengthens the fabric of society by ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, is included and protected.

Understanding the measures needed to protect older persons in peace and war underscores the importance of robust legal frameworks and international policies. Knowledge in this area drives the creation and enforcement of laws that defend their rights, ensuring that their needs are addressed under national and internation law, in particular International Human Rights Law in peace and war times and in international humanitarian law in war time. This focus leads to better resource allocation, policy development, and training of personnel to support and protect older populations effectively.

This fifth event, will take place on Thursday, at 09:30 NY/ 15:30 CET, on the 21st of November, 2024.