2nd Meeting, 2nd Session of the Intergovernmental Working Group on Older Persons (IGWG)

Excellencies, distinguished participants, I hereby declare open the second meeting of the second session of the Intergovernmental Working Group on Human Rights of Other Persons. We're going to switch to Spanish.

Excellencies, Ambassadors, distinguished delegates, representatives of ministry, university sector, civil society, and in particular older persons. It's a real pleasure to meet again and an honour to lead this stage of our work. Allow me to begin with my thanks to Sebastián Rosales, who chaired the first meeting of our session. He is fully versed in human rights and this process, and he knows how to listen, which is something that doesn't always feature in everybody's CV, and we know that this skill can be so valuable and it can be a real quality. So thank you to Sebastian for his professionalism. I'm also grateful to ambassadors and specialists from the different national ministries, from academics and from civil society. Each provides their own crucial contribution and remembers that the decisions taken here must also operate outside of this room. I'd like to especially welcome older persons who are taking part in these discussions, because we're not negotiating an abstract. We're not drafting words that are addressed just to fill pages and reports and archives. We're really working on people, their rights, their autonomy, their dignity, and the possibility to live each stage of life in full respect and without discrimination. Behind each article, there's a story. Behind each article, or definition rather, there's an experience. And behind each commitment that we take, there is somebody waiting to see that our words turn into true protection. There's a simple idea that I want us to bear in mind throughout this week, and that's that older persons are not just the subject of our deliberations, they're protagonists. It's not enough to just talk about their rights. We need to listen to them when they explain how these rights are enjoyed or how they are violated. We have made progress, and we have also listened to positions and identified priorities and begun to acknowledge the core parts of a future legally binding instrument. But moving forward is not just about being happy to see each other again. It's about being able to demonstrate at the end of a session that we are a little closer to a result than we were at the beginning. In the United Nations, we all know the extraordinary capacity of diplomacy to produce general declarations. Sometimes we're so efficient explaining our positions that we run the risk of not allowing time to actually draw closer in our positions. I hope that in this week we can demonstrate that we're able to be even more extraordinary, and that would be to agree. We need to take a decisive step. We need to think about how general principles and concrete proposals are important, rather than describing language. We want to make sure that these aspirations can actually become obligations. Please remember, I'm not saying that you need to hide your differences. What is more difficult is that we perhaps need to explain our differences with clarity, that we also listen to the positions of others, and that we identify with patience and tolerance the words on which we can agree. Differences are not a sign of failure. They're the very substance of negotiation. If we had all come here with an identical text, we wouldn't need to have a working group in this room. It'd be enough to have a printer. We could come do something that no printer can do for us, build trust. This is why I'd like to invite all delegations to review each pillar of the future instrument and try to answer two questions. What protection do we want to guarantee? What aspect of language could express that idea, and how could we word it so that it can be legally robust and broad? We don't have to solve all of this in one week. That would not be realistic. But we can't leave for tomorrow something that we can begin to build today. We need to be focused in our discussions, we need to have useful proposals, we need to listen to what is said and what the concerns are for the person who is speaking, and we need to distinguish between a core difference that requires time or a drafting problem that can be solved with goodwill. In this endeavor, the regional groups play a crucial role. I'm grateful to them for the preparatory work and the consultations to identify facilitators. Before this week comes to an end, I will announce the proposed facilitators for the regional groups. It'll be important to coordinate contributions. support in finding convergence and ensure that our next negotiations can be buttressed by a more specific basis. But the success will depend on the commitment of all delegations. The Chair can open doors. We can try and keep them open for you. We can also try to guide you. when things seem far away, but what we cannot do is cross that threshold in your stead. We are lucky to have the independent expert, Mr. Pertousek, with us today, and we have Claudia Mahler and Roser Confrémate. and Antti Korhikivi, who is the head of the Treaty Bodies Division from the OHCHR. I'm very grateful to you all for being here with us and being ready to share your accumulated knowledge over many years of work. Your experience will help us ensure that this discussion does not lose touch with specific problems, protection gaps, and challenges for implementation that states are facing. I'd like to just particularly focus on the mandate of the independent expert. His work makes it possible to expose situations that often remain invisible and to identify gaps that still exist and formulate recommendations to strengthen effective protection for rights of older persons. The mandate of the Independent Expert and this intergovernmental process have different roles, but different does not mean opposing roles, they are complementary. One contributes to exposing the challenges and highlighting realities and the gaps in existing rights. The other offers states an opportunity to negotiate a legally binding instrument and contribute to closing those gaps. We mustn't choose between knowledge and negotiation. We need both of those things. We mustn't face, we must understand the experience of experts from the point of view of States. We need to listen to them with mutual respect. We will continue to work in this spirit, in a constructive, inclusive way that is results-oriented. We want to ensure that the negotiations in this group will contribute to reducing protection gaps that specialists from various disciplines have been pointing out since February. And this will make it possible for us to lay the foundations for an instrument that will be fit to meet the various needs of older persons. We know that this will not be easy. We come from many different legal backgrounds, in many cases, and we have historic priorities and realities that are different. We must ensure that we are clear in our discussions to protect rights, and it must be robust. We must be robust in ensuring that this can be implemented in very diverse national realities. But diversity is not an obstacle that we need to lament. It's a reality that we need to understand, and it's also an opportunity. If we are able to find common language without eradicating our differences, well, then this language will be stronger, more legitimate, and certainly long-lasting. We mustn't confuse prudence with immobility or a consensus with an absence of conviction. And let's not confuse patience, which is indispensable for any negotiation, with a lack of ambition. Because ambition that is worthwhile is not about giving the best speech. It's about wanting to achieve the most useful result. Nobody will tell me that the value of our work, because of the quantity of statements that we've heard or the number of pages we've produced, our legacy will be our capacity to contribute to ensuring that rights are respected and implemented effectively. This is why we need trust. And trust does not appear in the last paragraph of a resolution. It's built a long time beforehand, when we listen in good faith, when we share experience, we recognize a useful suggestion that wasn't perhaps our own, when we try to find a meeting point or common ground where before there had only been distance. We need to engage in dialogue, not in order to agree on everything, but precisely because we don't agree. dialogue doesn't exist if we are all convinced of what we believe. We need to be able to get ready to work alongside those who might have different convictions, and we need to have a shared conviction, and that is that protecting the human rights of older persons is not a marginal issue, nor the concern of one single group. This is a responsibility of societies. A responsibility that crosses generations, borders, and legal systems. I would therefore invite you to ensure that this week is more than just another session of meetings, but that we take a significant step towards a text where we see joint commitments that are more likely to ensure effective implementation of rights. We need to be realistic, and we need to be courageous. and respectful of principles, and yet flexible in trying to find solutions. And above all, let's move forward together. Thank you very much.

Thank you. And before continuing with the list of speakers, I want to tell you something that really annoy me a lot. We are in this room, I think this room, is extremely small. And I must assume, or I assumed before, that after the Secretariat, after all those who are in charge of logistic, they saw that we are in the temples, and the temples was almost full. But still they haven't realized that this is one of the most important process in human rights in the United Nations at the moment. And this morning, I sent two letters, one to the Secretary's holder person and the other secretary to the Director General of the United Nations here, to express my concern and really the fact that This is a lack of respect to our process. These letters have been written very firmly because I cannot understand how it's possible that all those who are in charge of human rights in this house, in this big house, do not understand that this is one of the most important processes that we have at the moment. This is the process that has the largest number of NGOs interested. We've been discussing this for years and years and years. We are really in a moment of maturation of this process. We need space for everyone, and this is completely inconceivable. I only learned this today. Unfortunately, I couldn't come yesterday, but I mean, in any case, I assume that we're going to have the assembly hall, at least the temples, or a really big room that deserves this process to be conducted. I sent two letters today. I hope we are going to have any result. And if not, I encourage you, particularly NGOs, to complain as well. Because, I mean, everybody should understand that this is not a joke, and this is a very serious process. So I encourage everyone to send letters to to actually fill up all with papers to the correspondent responsible of this, so that they will understand sooner or later that this is not a process that should be dismissed or putting aside as a margin, a process among many other things that's going on. But sorry, I mean, this passion, but I mean, I was really very upset this morning when I learned that we are like a compressed, like a, if we are like a, I don't know, in a shoebox. We don't deserve this. Well, now I'm going to continue with this speaker. I give you the floor to distinguished representative of Israel.

You have the floor.

Thank you. At the outset, Israel expresses its appreciation to you and this working group for the stewardship of this process and would like to commend the working group for the meaningful work carried out and the valuable progress made in and since the first session. Israel welcomes the opportunity to attend the second session of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Human Rights of Older Persons and to take a constructive part in this important and ambitious process aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of older persons through the negotiation of a legally binding instrument in this field. The Book of Leviticus commands us to show respect for the elderly. This injunction, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, continues to shape Israeli culture and society, which hold older persons in high esteem and accord them great respect. Older persons are valued as a cornerstone of the family and the community, and are cherished for their knowledge, wisdom, and life experience, which they pass on through generations. Israel recognizes the need for an instrument of the human rights of older persons, whose particular circumstances call for a dedicated approach. Such an approach should address aging in a positive manner and take into account the new needs arising from global developments, including increased life expectancy, the rising cost of living, and technological advancements. Israel is of the view that the protection of older persons should be grounded in respect for their autonomy, dignity, inclusion, and participation, while striking a balance between protection and personal agency. Israel has already implemented various programs and mechanisms to accommodate our growing population of older persons and stands ready to share its experience in this field. Regarding the issues at hand for this week's session, we reiterate Israel's stance that reference should be made to existing international conventions that already encompass rights applicable to older persons. To that end, the instrument should address the normative and implementation gaps identified, while avoiding unnecessary duplication of existing rights and obligations. Israel considers that the future instrument should include definitions that are clear, yet sufficiently flexible, so as to allow for their application across different legal systems and national contexts, while remaining consistent with the object and purpose of the instrument and with the existing international human rights treaty framework. The same approach should guide the formulation of State obligations under the instrument. In our view, core principles that should be addressed include, first and foremost, equality, non-discrimination on the basis of age and ageism, the right of participation in all aspects of society and in decision-making processes affecting the lives of older persons, and inclusion. It is important that the instrument promote a positive understanding of ageing by recognizing the meaningful role that older persons play as an integral part of our societies. With respect to implementation and monitoring, Israel reiterates its position that any discussion regarding a monitoring mechanism should be mindful of the resources required from treaty bodies as well as reporting countries, taking into account existing reporting obligations. Lastly, Israel believes that it is important that the future instrument be drafted with the meaningful participation of older persons, including their representative organizations. Such active participation is vital to ensuring the relevance and efficacy of this instrument. Mr. Chair, Israel looks forward to taking part and engaging in the constructive dialogue promoted by the working group and remains committed to contributing to the discussion. Thank you.

Thank you, distinguished representative of Israel. Now we give the floor to the distinguished representative of Paraguay.

Thank you. Paraguay welcomes the work of this group and reiterate its commitment to the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons. The second session is a major opportunity to make progress towards a legally binding international instrument based on the consensus and the existing obligations in international human rights law. As we pointed out previously, we believe it's crucial that the future instrument reaffirm the inherent dignity and equality of all older persons, regardless of age, health, and other factors. Equality and non-discrimination, autonomy, participation, accessibility, inclusion, security, and intergenerational solidarity must guide the provisions of this convention. As to the definitions of the catalog of rights. It is essential to have clear formulations which are precise and aligned with the existing international instruments to identify and address needs in the protection of older persons, overcoming ambiguities and interpretations of normative provisions. The inherent right to life must be protected, and the protection of older persons against violence, abuse, abandonment, exploitation in public and in private. We note the importance of access without discrimination to health care and adequate care, including palliative care. We note the fundamental role of the family and the community in care and protection of older persons and believe it is essential that the future instrument recognize the need to strengthen family and community support networks, promote intergenerational solidarity, and overcome isolation. States must rise to this challenge. This must be built on the experience of the regional human rights systems. Here we have the Inter-American Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, which is a valuable reference tool. The future instrument must recognize national realities, different legal systems, cultural traditions, and development priorities of states to ensure effective fully supported implementation, we reaffirm the importance of significant participation by elder persons themselves in this process, with a particular focus of those facing greater vulnerability. We trust that the work at this session will allow progress in a constructive and transparent way towards an inclusive, practical, and consensus-based instrument. Thank you. Thank you.

The representative of United Arab Emirates, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chairperson. Our country is fully committed to the negotiations of the Intergovernmental Working Group. We attach great priority to older persons, aware of the importance of a legally binding instrument that upholds their dignity and their basic rights. We recognize the central role of older persons as a nucleus of society and partners in decision making. We must strengthen the international normative basis based on consensus among states to overcome the existing obstacles, we must move forward in this group and we seek flexible consensus in order to prepare this instrument. We call for international cooperation that respects state sovereignty, normative frameworks and economic considerations, as well as social systems and cultural systems. Technical cooperation must be based on existing rules. My country's delegation reiterates that this instrument must be based on solid foundations, including the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. while drawing on United Nations principles on older persons and the international plan signed in Madrid. We call for more flexibility in the implementation in order to align with national priorities and existing resources. In conclusion, my country's delegation reiterates that our country is committed to pursuing constructive participation within this group in a spirit of dialogue and consensus to ensure tangible developments and take into account the concerns of States and national priorities. Thank you.

The United Arab Emirates. I give the floor to distinguished representative of the Holisi.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair Rapporteur, for giving me the floor. Mr. Chair Rapporteur, the delegation of the Holy See approaches this process with concern for older persons and a firm commitment to protecting their human rights. Our responsibility is to translate the recognition of those rights into care, protection, and participation in daily life. The foundation of our deliberations must be the inherent and equal dignity of every human person. This God-given dignity is neither earned through productivity nor diminished by age, illness, dependency, or cognitive impairment. Older persons sustain the memory of families and peoples. Their wisdom, experience, and presence enrich society and strengthen the bonds between generations. The delegation of the Holy See reiterates that priorities should be given to implementing existing human rights obligations. A new instrument should avoid duplication, preserve the coherence of international law, and respect universally agreed language. Precise terminology, clearly defined obligations, and respect for the mandate agreed by States are indispensable to legal certainty. The instrument should reaffirm the equal right to life of older persons until natural death and protection against violence, abuse, exploitation, neglect, and abandonment. Respect for their decisions requires accessible information, appropriate assistance, and safeguards against coercion and undue influence. No provision concerning autonomy should be construed as recognizing a so-called right to euthanasia or assisted suicide. Even when cure is no longer possible, the duty to care remains. Palliative care should be available according to need throughout serious illness, alongside appropriate treatment. It should address the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of older persons. The family, recognized in international human rights instruments as the natural and fundamental group unit of society, must receive protection and assistance. Support for caregivers and services close to home should strengthen family and community bonds. Public authorities retain responsibility for ensuring care where such support is unavailable or insufficient, and protection wherever abuse occurs. The delegation of the Holy See will continue to engage positively and constructively throughout the entire process. Thank you, Mr. Chair Rapporteur.

Thank you, distinguished representative of the Holy See. I give the floor to distinguished representative of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, GANRI.

Thank you, Chairperson. On behalf of GANRI, the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, representing 119 NHRIs worldwide, I would like to thank you for your leadership at this crucial stage of the process as we move from the initial discussions towards the substantive drafting of a new legally binding instrument on the rights of older persons. UNHRI particularly appreciates the openness demonstrated during the first session and the attention given to the voices and perspectives of NHRIs, civil society, and most importantly, older persons themselves. As we enter this next phase, Ganry hopes that the spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and cooperation will guide the process of developing an instrument that should be coherent, effective, and responsive to the lived realities and diverse experience of older persons. At the outset of the second session, Ganry reiterates the importance of ensuring that the future instrument explicitly addresses ageism and requires its elimination. It must affirm older persons as full and equal rights holders, recognizing their diversity, and embed a universal, comprehensive, and human rights-based approach to aging. It must also establish clear obligations and accountability mechanisms for states to respect, protect, and fulfill the human rights of older persons. We warmly welcome the appointment of co-facilitators for the thematic segments and look forward to engaging constructively with them and with the core group throughout the drafting process. We also hope that the agreed timeline will allow sufficient time and space for meaningful consultations, including at national and regional levels, and for empowerment and participation of other persons. NHRIs are uniquely placed to contribute to this process. Through their mandates to monitor human rights, receive and address complaints, advise public authorities, and assess national legislation and policies, NHRIs can help bring national realities and the lived experience of rights holders into the development of international standards. GANRI, for its part, actively advances this agenda at the international level. GANRI has a dedicated working group on the rights of older persons. Furthermore, in April 2026, GANRI published, on behalf of its member NHRIs, a contribution on the general framework architecture and guiding principles of LBI on the human rights of older persons. In this regard, GANRI calls for a continued recognition of NHRI's role and the structured participation in this process at all its stages, including on the drafting, but also in the implementation alongside Member States, older persons, civil society, and other stakeholders, including through thematic consultations and the work of the facilitators. Ganri also calls on States to engage more actively and constructively in these negotiations, to provide NHRIs with the necessary support and resources to contribute effectively and to ensure that their voices are heard and duly taken into account. Ganri reaffirms its full commitment to working hand-in-hand with all stakeholders to the development of the new LBI. Thank you.

Thank you, distinguished representative of Ganri. And I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the German Institute for Human Rights.

Thank you very much. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates and colleagues, I'm delivering this statement in behalf of ENHR, the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions, representing 51 national human rights institutions across Europe. ENHR welcomes the opening of the second substantive session of the Intergovernmental Working Group. We commend the Chair and the Secretariat for the work undertaken to advance this important process, and we fully align itself with the statement submitted by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions. During this session, we will consider the five elements of the new legally binding instrument: elements of the preamble, definitions, state obligations, catalogue of rights, and monitoring. Across all five elements, a comprehensive human rights approach to ageing must remain at the centre of our discussions. Older persons must be recognized and defined in all their diversity, including older women, older persons with disabilities, older LGBTQI persons, older persons living in rural areas or in poverty, older migrants and refugees, older persons deprived of their liberty, and older internally displaced persons. The new instrument must establish a human rights-based approach that fully recognizes and strengthens the dignity and autonomy, independence, and agency of older persons as full rights holders. It must also explicitly address ageism in its internalized, interpersonal and institutional dimensions, as well as the cumulative impact of inequalities experienced throughout the life course. We welcome the timeline proposed at the previous session of the Intergovernmental Working Group. The meaningful, effective, full and equal participation of NTRIs, civil society, older persons and their representative organizations must be ensured throughout every stage of the drafting process. including both during sessions in Geneva and throughout the inter-sessional period. This must include meaningful participation of older persons living in vulnerable situations, those facing intersectional and multiple forms of discrimination, and marginalized groups of older persons. The next important step will be the launch of the call for input on the five thematic elements of the instrument. We encourage the call to be issued in a timely manner and to provide sufficient time for stakeholders, including older persons and organizations of older persons, to submit some substantive contributions. ENRE and its members stand ready to contribute their expertise and experience to this process at the national, regional, and international levels, and to support the development of a strong, comprehensive, and effective instrument that advances the rights and dignity of older persons. Thank you very much.

Thank you, distinguished representative of the German Institute for Human Rights. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Procuraduría de Derechos Humanos de Guatemala.

Señor Presidente.

Chairperson. The Convention for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of the Guatemala Human Rights Institution and other organizations committed to the human rights of all older persons express sincere thanks for the work done to provide significant process on the Universal Convention, which shall be legally binding. for the subject of older persons, we request, first of all, the inclusion of an explicit, categoric prohibition of ageism in the normative construction of the universal document. Age-based discrimination operates as the primary structural barrier that allows this population group to be made invisible and excluded. It conditions their access to basic services and fosters paternalistic and infantilizing stereotypes that devalue them and degrade them in society. Second, we maintain that the right to care cannot be separated from personal autonomy. It is essential to establish international standards based on the person-centered model to guide the regulation, supervision, and verification of residences, day centers, and any other type of care establishment. State oversight must inalienably guarantee full respect for the privacy and legal capacity of residents, free and informed consent for all treatment, care or life plan, an absolute prohibition of physical or chemical restraints, or treatments, as well as involuntary isolation, which constitute cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment when applied outside of strict medical necessity with consent. Finally, we firmly denounce the normalization and the rendering invisible of abandonment of older persons, both in the family and in institutional spheres. Abandonment is not a private matter or an inevitable cost of aging. It is a serious form of mistreatment and neglect that violates the right to dignity and personal integrity. States must assume the obligation to prevent, punish, and eradicate these practices through community support networks, robust social protection systems, and accessible mechanisms for reporting and restitution of rights. President, Protecting older persons is not a welfare action, it is a duty in justice and human rights. We urge this Intergovernmental Working Group to reflect these guarantees with clarity and binding force in the text of the Convention. We stand ready to consider the contributions, because as a human rights institution, we are aware of the many violations that can affect older persons. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you.

The Age Platform Europe. You have the floor.

Mr. Chair, thank you. Excellencies, delegates and colleagues, good morning to all of us. I'm speaking on behalf of Age Platform Europe, the largest network of older people, which represents 105 organizations across Europe and whose contributions have helped to shape Age Platform's messages and recommendations for the second session of the Intergovernmental Working Group. Since yesterday, we have been listening very carefully to the statements made by the national delegations, but also from other stakeholders, and to your commitments. many of which reflect our own recommendations. Thank you very much for your ambitions. We see this, of course, as a good sign for the drafting process, and let me now to outline the key points from our perspective of Age Platform Europe. First of all, as regards older people and their representative organizations, I would like to reiterate our long-standing call: we older people must be meaningfully involved in all steps of negotiation with equal opportunities to share our life experiences, expectations, and aspirations during drafting sessions. Older people are by far the best experts in aging. Our lived experience is exactly what can help anchor this Convention, the future instrument, in everyday people's reality and lives. Therefore, upcoming consultations and meetings on the elements of the instrument and upcoming drafts should be open to representative organizations of older persons, but also including the hybrid modalities. This is absolutely crucial to ensure our meaningful participation. This involvement must also reflect the diversity of older persons in order to effectively remove the barriers for all older persons, leaving no one behind. Age Platform Europe welcomes the forthcoming regional meetings that will contribute to the zero draft of the Convention and looks forward to engaging with regional actors in 2027. We also invite you, Member States, to consult with older people at national level when formulating your respective positions. Content-wise, the legally binding instrument must have a broad scope to enable the full enjoyment of all human rights in old age. And to that extent, it should recognize that ageism is a cross-cultural phenomenon. This is not just internalized and interpersonal. This is also systemic and institutionalized. In short, the instrument on the rights of older persons must establish a legal framework to tackle ageism and age discrimination at their very roots. Regarding the catalogue of rights, it must be, of course, comprehensive and reflect cross-cutting issues like intersectionality, as well as changing lived experiences impacting the realization of human rights, such as digitalization, but also the climate change. Finally, all these elements and principles must be complemented by mechanisms to monitor the implementation and ensure accountability at international and national levels, so that the future instrument can effectively safeguard older people's rights in practice. Members of Age Platform Europe, are confident that this week, discussions will be guided by these principles. We are looking forward to continuing to engage in the process along member states, civil society organizations, older persons, obviously, toward the common goal for the fundamental goal, sorry, of ensuring that we will all continue to enjoy our human rights in old age. Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, distinguished representative of Age Platform Europe, and I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of International Federation of Ageing.

Thank you, Chairperson, rapporteur. Allow me to express our sincere appreciation for your firm and principled stand in calling for appropriate facilities for our deliberations. Please be assured, Mr. Chair, that your call to civil society has been heard. You can count on us, and we will support accordingly. Thank you for your leadership and commitment. With that, Mr. Chair, allow me to turn to the substance of my statement. The International Federation on Ageing, representing 400 members around the world, aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by IMPA on behalf of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People, GAROP, and warmly acknowledges GAROP's leadership in mobilizing and coordinating civil society engagement in this historic process. Mr. Chair, when we say that we are not starting from scratch, we mean precisely that. We have already identified the gaps. Time has come to act, not to restart the exercise. Our task now is to develop a convention that builds on existing international human rights law and delivers clear, tangible added value in both real legal protection and practice. In this context, IFA wishes to highlight four considerations. First, universality and diversity must go hand in hand. Older persons are not an homogeneous group. Their circumstances differ not only between individuals, but also across and within countries, reflecting substantial differences. Gender inequalities, disability, and other forms of discrimination, often intersecting and accumulating through the life course, further shape these differences, particularly for older women and older persons with disabilities. Armed conflicts, natural disasters, and the impacts of climate change may further exacerbate existing inequalities. Second, we should build on the experience of existing international human rights conventions. The Convention on the Rights of the Child and Persons with Disabilities offer particularly relevant precedents for developing a comprehensive, coherent, and forward-looking instrument. Our objective should not be merely to restate existing rights, but to ensure their full and equal enjoyment in older age, addressing ageism, discrimination, and specific barriers older persons face. Third, rights must be translated into effective state obligations. Fourth, meaningful participation is indispensable. Older persons and their representative organizations in older diversity must be actively involved not only in drafting the Convention, but also in its implementation and monitoring. Mr. Chair, IFA remains committed to working constructively with GUAROP and all other partners towards a comprehensive and effective Convention that makes tangible difference in people's lives today and for generations to come. Human rights do not expire with age. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, distinguished representative of International Federation of Ageing. I give the floor to distinguished representative of International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse. You have the floor.

Mr. Chair, the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse makes this statement on behalf of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People, GAROP. a coalition of over 400 member organizations worldwide, raising the voices of older persons from around the world. We welcome this second session of the Intergovernmental Working Group and the opportunity to advance the development of a strong and effective legally binding instrument on the human rights of older persons. Ahead of this session, GAROP's content working group has produced four new discussion papers addressing the elements of the preamble, state obligations, the scope of the Treaty, and a catalogue of rights for possible inclusion in the new instrument. Each paper builds on GARAP’s widely used Joint Consensus Position from July 2026, and they are neither exhaustive nor final proposals. They aim to stimulate further discussion and enhance shared understanding of these thematic areas, and will support wider consultation towards further consensus positions. We encourage States to make use of these discussion papers in dialogue and consultations with older persons and civil society at the national level. As GAROP has consistently affirmed, older persons, in all their diversity, are entitled to the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms, on an equal basis with others and without discrimination of any kind. The new treaty should reaffirm the full range of existing human rights. To do this, it must clarify and strengthen their application in the context of older age. It must reflect the realities older persons face today and those that they will face in the future. Finally, GAROP reiterates that the full, meaningful and effective participation of older persons and their representative organizations is essential through the drafting and negotiation process. GAROP remains committed to working constructively with Member States towards a comprehensive, strong and effective treaty that ensures the full and equal enjoyment of human rights in older age. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Alliance Defending Freedom.

ADF International welcomes the opportunity to contribute to discussions on the future legally binding instrument on the promotion and protection of human rights of older persons. We share the aim of an ambitious and consensus-based text that strengthens the protection and promotion of the rights of older persons. Mr. Chair Rapporteur, we see the importance of continued discussions on the purpose, scope, and general principles of the future instrument. First, the LBI should clearly identify its purpose and scope. ADF International believes that properly framing the instrument around the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by older persons and respect for their inherent dignity will promote legal certainty and consistent interpretation and implementation. Further, the LBI would benefit from a savings clause, clarifying, among others, that none of its provisions shall be interpreted as derogating from rights and obligations under international law or from more protective provisions of the domestic law of State parties. Together with the purpose, continued consideration agreement on the instrument's general principles is a necessary precondition for discussion on other substantive elements of the text. A provision listing general principles is crucial in informing the interpretation and application of substantive provisions of the LBI and guiding their implementation. In addition to human rights principles already reflected in various international instruments relevant to older persons, we consider that the principle of subsidiarity to be of paramount importance. This principle of subsidiarity ensures that older persons are empowered to exercise their rights, with their needs addressed at the closest appropriate level, an essential complement to the primary responsibility of States to protect and uphold human rights. We further attach particular importance to the principle of security. which underpins the due diligence obligation of States to protect older persons from violence, abuse, neglect, abandonment and exploitation, including by addressing isolation, loneliness and inadequate care and support. Mr. Chair Rapporteur, ADF International looks forward to offering its input on the relevant sections of the legally binding instrument during this session and remains at the disposal of all delegations wishing to discuss these points further. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of International Disability Alliance.

Thank you, Chair, for this opportunity. Dear Chair, Excellencies, Delegates, Colleagues, the International Disability Alliance continues its engagement in this process to advocate for a legally binding instrument that upholds and builds upon relevant CRPD standards when properly addressing the specific situation of older persons. We appreciate many States' remarks in this direction. Global estimates suggest that almost half of all the persons have impairments and that older persons represent the majority among persons with disabilities. Consequently, a thorough consideration of the intersection between disability and aging needs to be present in this process. The CRPD and its human rights standards has to be the minimum floor for this new standard setting process. As for disability rights and policy, any medical model on older age needs to be left behind to focus on a human rights based approach, stressing on fostering autonomy with supportive require, freedom to make one's own choices, inclusion, and participation in the community. In this sense, to inform the discussions, IDA calls the states to review and keep in mind the recent CRPD Committee's statement towards a legally binding instrument on the rights of older persons, adopted at its last session. Older persons with disabilities face important restrictions of rights due to older age and/or disability. Their autonomy and choice over their own life is restricted through guardianship and incapacitation, segregated and institutionalized living arrangements imposed to them by others, either de jure or de facto, including due to lack of support for independent living. And social protection systems do not cover basic income support and disability-related costs, sometimes provoking incompatibilities of benefits, services, or access to assistive devices based on age with those based on disability. Ageing is an inevitable part of life, but isolation and deprivation of rights is for sure not. This standard-setting process needs to further develop rights, specifying their content for older persons and addressing any right protection gaps at the intersection of older age and disability. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you. I want to give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Foundation, Jérôme Lejeune.

Chair, ladies and gentlemen, the Foundation Jérôme Lejeune Thanks for giving us the floor on a subject that is all about human rights. For the past 30 years, we have associated advocacy to ensure the defence of human rights, notably those suffering from or those with Down's syndrome. We can see a situation where we have a society that depends rather than protects, and often those with disabilities are facing the same temptation, that's to gauge the scope of existence to their autonomy, their utility, their health, the status of health, and so on. We must say that human rights are not a reward that we give to autonomous people, but they're inherent to each individual. Vulnerability does not mean that they should be stripped of any rights. Dependence does not mean that they cannot have dignity, and age or disability should not be grounds for discrimination or making people invisible. We call for protection of the human rights of older persons that does not restrict it to autonomy, but guarantees their rights to be supported and protected until the natural end of their lives, which should never place conditions on dignity or a pretext to abandon those who need other people, we would point to the ethics of end of life. Faced with solitude and dependence, the response of society should be to strengthen health care, notably palliative care, and solidarity. Older persons, not just those living with disabilities or a serious illness, should never be led to believe that their existence is a burden for their loved ones or for society as a whole. The right to dignity cannot depend on a judgment that society places on a right, and the right to be protected should never be conditioned or just like charity, chair our fundamental task is to guarantee that older persons remain fully-fledged rights holders, without distinction connected to their health status, disability, or their degree of independence. The Jérôme Lejeune Foundation calls for protection that leaves nobody behind and reaffirms that the value of an individual does not diminish even when their vulnerability increases. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of AARP.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

AARP works to ensure that we can all choose how we live as we age.

We are a proud member of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People. The recent discussion papers developed by the Global Alliance's content working group offer valuable proposals for advancing the work of this group. AARP finds several considerations especially important for the transformative purpose of the new legally binding instrument. First, the convention should clearly recognize the discrimination and exclusion that older persons experience and address ageism as a barrier to the enjoyment of human rights.

Second, the convention should translate rights into meaningful obligations.

States parties should be required to respect, protect, and fulfill the human rights of older persons, and to ensure their full and equal enjoyment without discrimination.

Third, the treaty should protect older people.

Experiencing or at risk of experiencing denial of their human rights on the basis of their older.

Age, including where age interacts with other grounds or factors.

This approach recognizes the diversity of older persons and the different forms of discrimination they may experience.

Finally, the Convention should be comprehensive. The discussion before us should consider the broad range of rights and areas necessary to ensure that existing human rights can be fully.

Enjoyed in the context of older age.

AARP looks forward to working constructively with Member States.

Older.

Persons, civil society, and other stakeholders toward an ambitious convention that makes older persons' equality and human rights a reality.

Thank you.

Thank you. Now I give the floor to distinguished representative of International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care.

Respected Chair. The International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care, a global non-profit organization representing palliative care practitioners in over 140 countries, respectfully urges that the legally binding instrument explicitly recognize access to palliative care as an integral component of the right to life, which is the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. and the right to care, as recognized by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. As population age, the need for palliative care becomes increasingly urgent. WHO estimates global life expectancy at 73.3 years, compared with a healthy life expectancy of just 62.8 years. a gap of about 10 years during which many people experience serious health-related suffering. Non-communicable diseases now account for 74% of global deaths, while dementia has become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide. Palliative care addresses physical, psychological, social, and spiritual suffering while supporting family caregivers who often face substantial emotional and financial burdens, particularly in low and middle income countries. With appropriate workforce training, palliative care can be delivered effectively at home and in communities, reducing unnecessary hospitalizations, unwanted treatments, and costs for both families and health systems. Importantly, palliative care is person-centered rather than disease-centered. It respects individual autonomy, dignity, and preferences while improving quality of life for patients and caregivers alike. Integrating palliative care into health systems is not merely a clinical necessity, but a human rights obligation and a strategic investment in universal health coverage. We urge Member States to ensure that the legally binding instrument explicitly guarantees older persons equitable access to quality palliative care, including in community settings. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Age Well Foundation.

And the core members and the Secretariat for the work that has brought all of us here today, once again. Four in five by 2050, four in five of world's oldest persons, older persons, will be living in low and middle income countries. That is the global south. That is what the WHO says. By then, 2.1 billion of us old people will be 60 plus in the world. So we ask, in this spirit of partnership, whose lives this instrument must fit? Every few months, the world applauds a longevity breakthrough. A multi-trillion dollar economy is rising on the promise of longer lives. But unfortunately, in the Global South, every person who receives these extra years often finds an empty house, an unpaid bill, and no one who needs him or her anymore. That is not a headline. That is just another day full of sufferings in the life of an older person. This month, We at Age Well Foundation released a survey of 25,000 old people across 25 states and union territories of India, carried out from our own resources with a large team of volunteers. It is an evidence from the Global South gathered in the Global South. We submitted it to the core members and the IGWG Secretariat in good faith. We respectfully request that it should be circulated as an official submission to this session, so that these voices can inform the text. Here we make three requests: Put care and support at the core. Make international cooperation real through partnership and shared expertise. Ask those who profit from the longevity economy, to share responsibility for the care of those who are now living longer, and they, the researchers, are profiting from it. I take this opportunity to ask you all to let the young people sit at this table. They are the older persons of tomorrow. Chair, we leave you with these three questions for the week. Will this instrument fit the lives of most older persons on this planet? Will it work in every country, whatever the resources are? And will it be written with the young people who will inherit it tomorrow? We believe the answer to each of these would be yes, and we stand ready to help. Thank you.

Thank you, Anna Guida, for distinguished representative of the Confederazione Generale Italiana del Lavoro.

Colleagues, on behalf of the 2.5 million members of the Pensioners' Union of CGIL and aligning ourselves to the statement of Age Platform Europe and GAROP, it is with great expectation that we start this working week, aiming to provide a refined set of elements for the zero draft of the legally binding instrument. Many contributions in Geneva have already been recorded in February and July, but others have also come from different quarters. Last March, at the CSW, Ambassador Brants-Caris, at the time UNASG and currently EU Special Representative for Human Rights, reminded that we do not age out of our human rights and that we need to build a social protection system where lifelong inequalities do not turn into insecurity. Socio-economic issues will be at the core of our contribution, even though all topics remain relevant, but other colleagues have specific expertise. Our action in defence of older persons' rights, through alliances with other civil society organisations, to negotiations with local and national authorities, and to permanent links with the needs of active workers, address topics such as the high cost of living affecting the purchasing power and the living conditions of many older persons, the need to ensure decent pensions and a fair tax system, the defence of universal public health care, the right to care and assistance, with particular attention to people who are not self-sufficient and their families. The representative of the Philippines yesterday rightly stated that we need to protect the rights of those receiving and those offering care, in particular migrant workers. I want to recall also the intervention of Lesotho, speaking inter alia of accessibility, health in rural areas, or Colombia, addressing emerging risks such as climate-related. All government, as well as civil society, are providing interesting elements to create a standard enshrining this right. And dear Chair, we trust this process, as you ask us if we were trusting it or not, and we look forward to this exercise.

Thank you.

Thank you, Anne. I give you the floor, distinguished representative of the International LGBT Centre Canada.

I speak on behalf of the International Longevity Centre Canada to reaffirm the urgent need for a legally binding United Nations Convention on the Human Rights of Older Persons. Older persons are entitled to the same human rights as everyone else, yet ageism remains deeply embedded in our societies, institutions, and public policies. It undermines autonomy, limits participation, and can lead to discrimination, neglect, and exclusion. Population aging is one of the defining transformations of our time. Older persons contribute enormously to our economies and communities as workers, as caregivers, volunteers, and family members. Yet their contributions are too often undervalued and their needs framed as a burden or a cost, and their rights not respected, protected, or fulfilled simply because a person is older. Protecting their human rights is not only a moral and legal obligation, it's an economic necessity. Societies that enable people to age with dignity, health, autonomy, and security benefit from the knowledge and contributions of their entire population. Discrimination and exclusion waste human potential, deepen inequalities, and create avoidable social and economic costs. Existing international human rights instruments have not adequately addressed the specific barriers and discrimination experienced by older persons. We need a convention that translates universal human rights into clear state obligations and meaningful, enforceable protections. ILC Canada believes that this instrument must address ageism, protect autonomy and participation, safeguard access to health and long-term care, and reflect older persons' lived experiences. Income insecurity, for example, can compromise access to housing, food, and essential services. The Convention must recognize the structural inequalities that contribute to such insecurity and provide for monitoring, access to remedies, and international cooperation, while ensuring that older persons and their representative organizations participate meaningfully in its development, implementation, and monitoring. Chair, older persons are right holders and valued contributors to our societies. Their dignity and human rights must be protected on an equal basis with others. ILC Canada urges all Member States to work constructively towards a strong, comprehensive, and legally binding convention that closes existing protection gaps and ensures that the human rights of older persons are realized in practice. Thank you.

Thank you. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cameroon.

Executive Director of ACAMAJ, Cameroonian Association for the Care of Older Persons, which promotes and protects the rights of older persons in Cameroon. As a member of GAROP, we fully align with the oral statement delivered on its behalf. As a civil society organization, We are deeply proud of taking part in this historic process toward adoption of a new treaty on the rights of older persons. However, if we want to achieve a transformative treaty, its drafting process must acknowledge that older people are not a homogenous group, and it must include the voices and consult with diverse groups of older people throughout the process. Member States must ensure other people in all their diversity and their representative organization, including grassroots and community organizations, are involved from the start. Sadly, some other people from my community in Cameroon who have been advocating for this treaty for a long time will no longer be able to take part in this development, but high expectations remain. Before passing away recently, a colleague, another activist, expressed his hope for this treaty with the following words: "I'm naturally optimistic. If the convention is drafted and adopted by the states, then our living condition and those of future generations will change for the better." We are doing everything we can to make this happen. We must therefore all work together. The modalities of this working group should ensure that civil society and other persons are able to participate directly and meaningfully in all sessions, any panels and subgroups with guaranteed speaking slot and hybrid modalities of work.

Thank you, Chair.

Thank you. I will give the floor to the distinguished representative of HelpAge International.

As a proud member of GAROP, we align ourselves to the statement presented on its behalf. The global consultations conducted by HelpAge International with older persons and our network members across regions point to a clear conclusion: a new treaty must recognize older persons as equal rights holders, address gaps in existing protections, and ensure that human rights are realized in practice. Five priorities stand out.

First, autonomy must be protected in every circumstance. Care and support must never come at the cost of older people's freedom to make decisions about their money, health.

Relationships, and living arrangements.

The treaty must safeguard legal capacity, will, and preferences, and ensure that support enables rather than restricts independence.

Second, no rights issue should remain invisible.

The treaty must explicitly address violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including within families and care settings.

It must also recognize bodily autonomy, loneliness, dementia, digital exclusion, and the rights of older persons who provide unpaid care.

These issues are too often normalized, overlooked, or difficult to raise. Third, equality requires recognition of diversity.

Older persons are not a homogenous group.

Ageism intersects with discrimination based on gender, disability, poverty, displacement, migration, sexual identity and orientation, and other circumstances.

The treaty must address these intersecting barriers and ensure that all older persons can exercise their rights on an equal.

Basis.

Fourth, participation must mean influence.

Older persons must be involved not merely as consultees, but in shaping decisions, policies, and services that affect their lives. As one older person in Lebanon told us, they must hear our voice before writing the plan. This principle must guide the drafting of this treaty itself, as well as its implementation and monitoring.

Fifth, rights must be enforceable. Recognition on paper is not enough when health care and medicines remain unaffordable, social protection inaccessible, or complaints mechanisms ineffective.

The treaty must establish clear state obligations supported by adequate resources, accessible services, effective accountability, monitoring, and remedies. These priorities are interconnected. Equality means little without autonomy, participation is hollow without influence, and rights cannot transform lives without effective implementation. Let us develop a treaty shaped by older persons' lived experiences, addressing both long-standing protection gaps and rights concerns too often left unspoken.

Above all, let us ensure that its standards lead to meaningful change in older persons' everyday lives.

Thank you.

Thank you, distinguished representative of the Center for Human Rights of Users and Survivors of Psychiatry.

Thank you. As older persons with psychosocial disabilities, we have so many questions about the forthcoming treaty and the impact that it will have. Whether we will now gain equal acknowledgement from others or continue to be a marginalised group with reduced rights. Whether we will still have to struggle against sanism, now compounded by ageism as well, or finally gain the human rights for which we've been struggling all our lives. Whether the rights which we attain will now be fully compliant with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Whether the combination of psychosocial disabilities, older age, and physical impairments, which we may also have, will continue to put us even more at risk of being regarded as incapable and so unable to make decisions. Or there will be a strong move away from the currently dominant white Western medical model. Whether there'll be recognition of our legal capacity in its true sense, our right to have and exercise the same rights as others, or whether substitute decision making, guardianship and involuntary institutionalisation and treatment will continue to be thought acceptable for us in certain circumstances. Will there be recognition that, as older persons with psychosocial disabilities, We too have a wealth of experience and contributions, acquired over many years, to offer society as a whole. Whether there will now be comprehensive action to address the intersectional discrimination which many of us continue to experience on the basis of factors such as our gender, social class, sexual orientation, ethnicity or immigration status, no compounded by ageism as well. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar Foundation for Social Work.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We are an institution that is affiliated to the social work institution in Qatar. It is important to promote the rights of older persons because they are efficient members of society, of partners in development and decision making. It is important to move from a service-based approach to a rights-based approach, and the independence and autonomy of older persons is not a social objective, but these are fundamental rights that should be guaranteed by the LBI. Securing the rights of older persons is not limited to providing care and protection, but we should also respect their will, their free choice, their capacities, and to secure their real and meaningful participation in decisions that have an impact on their lives. That's why our center, Ehsan, in the state of Qatar, is keen on translating the empowerment principles into real practices in life. We have the council of all persons that we call valued elderly in the cultural neighborhood of Katara. We enable them to discuss issues of society. We should also allow older persons to enjoy opportunities of participation. Based on our practical experience, Mr. Chair, we think that the LBI should be based on three pillars: first, secure participation in decision making, in the design of policies, programs, services, their assessment, and to have institutional mechanisms that secure their voices and to their participation. Second, to safeguard independence and free choice in such a way that will preserve their dignity, their will, their preferences, and we should not We should also provide the necessary support, and third pillar, we should promote their participation in the implementation and monitoring of rights, and we should also benefit from the expertise of NGOs. Mr. Chair, moving from care to empowerment doesn't mean that we should abandon care, but we should have a global and more inclusive and holistic system that will recognize the rights and knowledge of older persons as right holders, as partners, and as a source of knowledge. We should listen to the voice of older persons, and we should also give them the space that will allow them to participate and to have an impact. They are not merely beneficiaries of development, but they are partners in making development. Thank you.

Yes, Chris Heroy speaking on behalf of OKRA, which is a Belgian organization for older people, a proud member of Age Europe. It has now been less than half a year since our first substantive discussion, but during that time, we've witnessed day after day how the vulnerability for human rights violations of older people has increased. We've seen again how poorly protected many older persons were against the successive heatwaves and the other disastrous effects of global warming, and the lethargy shown by many governments in responding to this. We've seen the number of conflict zones around the world increase, and the heavy toll this takes on the older population, who find it more difficult to flee. We see the capabilities of artificial intelligence grow exponentially, but at the same time also the increase of the dual vulnerability of older persons in the digital world. There are those who use digital tools but are insufficiently protected against fraud and other forms of abuse, and there are those who do not rely on digital tools but day by day can rely less and less on traditional services, whether from the authorities or from essential services provided by the private sector. And then there's the ongoing aging of the population, and consequently, the sharp rise in the number of older people in need of care, whilst governments are blocking the expansion of care facilities and simply saying that families must sort it all out, even as families are becoming smaller, more fragmented, or are being asked to take a more active role on the labor market at the expense of informal care. And then there are the severe budgetary cuts underway in many countries which are affecting social security, health care, and other public services, with particularly severe cuts to pension entitlements and the right to a survivor's pension, thereby violating the human right to a decent income. And all this, all of this increasingly being done under the pretext of so-called intergenerational solidarity. That concept was introduced at the beginning of this century by Mr. Vern Bengston, further promoted by the United Nations, with the aim of connecting generations and as a response to those who pit generations against one another. Today, we see the abuse of this concept to turn young people against older people, working people against retired people, and how even the many street protests by young people nowadays are being framed unjustified as a revolt of the young against the old. These are just a handful of developments, but all of them demonstrate the need for a powerful, future-proof LBI with enforceable rights and rules, but also with a powerful international supervisory system. It would be not acceptable that the supervision would be weaker, compared with what exists already for children, women, and especially persons with disabilities. I thank you.

Thank you, distinguished representative. FOCRA now give the floor to distinguished representative of HelpAge Deutschland.

Thank you, Chair. I fully agree, this is a small, cozy room, but in a certain way, I like it. Why? La Construction du Palais des Nations from Italian painter Massimiliano Campili here on the mural symbolizes the collective building of world peace and a new stable international order. In July, we used the image of a construction site to build up a convention, because this working group is building not on a greenfield, but on a brownfield site. So if I may quote the Secretary and the Branch Chief from yesterday, the first session already laid the foundation. The extensive work of the Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing confirmed by treaty bodies, by the independent experts, and by older persons themselves, and other stakeholders has documented in detail the gaps in the human rights protection of older persons in health care, social protection, justice, autonomy and participation, but not limited. Our task is not to identify these gaps once again. Playing for time or reopening debates that have already reached broad convergence would risk undermining confidence in the process and in the commitment to older persons' rights. 2027 presents a wealth of opportunities, and it would be much easier to advocate for the rights of senior citizens if a Convention would already be in place and we could leave our own The 2030 Agenda, the Paris Treaty, Sendai Framework are due for review, all documents where older persons are not really appreciated, and the Convention on the Protection of Persons in Disasters and Emergencies is set to be adopted. Finally, it would also support the MIPA+25 process, in which we have high hopes too. This is not the case, but the mere fact that work is being done on the Convention makes it easier to advocate for the rights of older people worldwide and in international agreements. Therefore, a strong convention must be based on lived experience, forming the cornerstones of an intergenerational approach, where we regard five pillars. First, human dignity for autonomy over the whole lifespan. Social protection and economic security, health and long-term care, protection from violence, abuse, and financial exploitation. And finally, inclusion, participation, and digital access. Behind these pillars stands one root cause the Convention must name: ageism. According to the WHO, one in two people worldwide holds ageist attitudes towards older persons. The full and meaningful participation of all persons and their representative organizations, including in the thematic working groups, is a precondition for a credible and transformative convention. And please allow me to invite you and all distinguished delegates to join the German side event following this session at quarter past one in conference room where we will discuss meaningful participation. Chair, the world has waited long enough, but we shouldn't be naive here. We cannot achieve everything in this working week. But we are all now here, and we all can make the difference, now, here. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, Naguib. I will give the floor to distinguished representative of Alzheimer's Disease International.

Honorable Chair and distinguished delegates, Alzheimer's Disease International is the umbrella organization of Alzheimer's and dementia associations representing over 100 organizations globally. As we gather together to discuss the development of a legally binding instrument on the human rights of older persons, it is imperative that we continue to advocate for the rights of those who are living with cognitive impairment, such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease, within our discussions. Dementia's inclusion within this legally binding instrument will unambiguously serve as legal precedent. for the safeguarding of rights of older persons living with cognitive impairment, highlighting the intersectional nature of this instrument and ensuring the protection of those who not only face age-based discrimination, but also discrimination on the basis of a condition like dementia or Alzheimer's. While dementia is not a normal part of aging, age is the biggest risk factor for developing the condition. Dementia is one of the critical public health emergencies of our generation, with global cases set to reach over 78 million by 2030. and the annual economic cost is expected to reach 2.8 trillion USD in 2030 as well. ADI would like to continue to highlight the continuing need to advocate for people living with dementia globally and ensuring the voice of lived experience is heard, especially as we discuss the rights of older persons. Exclusion on the basis of age, exacerbated by a dementia diagnosis and the stigma that accompanies that, is a major risk to the dignity, autonomy, participation, and other human rights of older persons. Alzheimer's and dementia in many countries around the world is still largely regarded as a normal part of aging, in addition to being continually heavily stigmatized. This pervasive stigma surrounding the condition greatly limits the care, support, and treatment that people living with dementia can seek out, and increases their propensity to experience social isolation, makes them targets for financial abuse, and generally excludes them from societal participation. Principles such as non-discrimination and full and effective participation and inclusion in society, as set out in the CRPD, are guiding principles that we should seek to uphold and ensure are fully respected in the drafting of this new legally binding instrument, especially as it pertains to the rights of older persons living with dementia. We thank the Intergovernmental Working Group for their leadership in the process so far. We must ensure to carry the momentum forwards as we work towards a zero draft of this declaration. Thank you.

The interpreters are telling me that if you could please slow down your statements for actually having a very good translation. And now I give the floor to Maria Soledad Sisterna Reyes. You have the floor.

Good morning to all. I welcome this opportunity provided to us by the University for Peace in order to make a statement on behalf of Latin America. The Latin American Network for the Rights of Older Persons established in Santa Cruz in 2026, declares: 1. We reaffirm our commitment to the defense of human rights of older persons, in the conviction that human dignity is inherent to all persons, regardless of the passage of time. 2. We believe that our region, which sees profound inequalities In that region, growing old is not only a biological experience, but a collective social experience based on the experience, the rights, and the inequalities accumulated over a lifetime. Inspired by the rights contained in the Inter-American Convention on the Rights of Older Persons adopted in 2015, We recognize that older persons are full rights holders and may decide on their own lives, participate in society, and build their own projects. For our contribution to the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Human Rights of Older Persons, under the United Nations, is based on the principles of our Convention. Growing old is not only age-based. Non-discrimination based on age may not take place based on age or any other factor. There must be autonomy. There must be a life free of violence. There must be the right to health, to care, and to social security. There must be full social, economic, political participation and participation in development in society. Interdependence of generations must be recognized, as must the importance of intergenerational solidarity. The responsibility of states must be upheld. We believe that aging of our societies must be addressed, it must be seen as a human achievement and a challenge. As we say in the preamble, we must address these matters from a human rights based perspective, recognizing the important current and future contributions of old persons to a fair society. This is a statement on behalf of Latin America, which sends greetings to this working group, and our people are following this conference by internet. Thank you.

Now I give the floor to distinguished representative of H. Noble Consulting Incorporation.

Delegates, and colleagues, Age Noble aligns itself with the statement of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People and support those of organizations within the Canadian civil society delegation, as well as those of SGA Africa and its members. Age Noble sees a transformative opportunity this convention presents for humanity, not only in the rights it recognizes, but in the assumption it challenges, the changes it demands, and the future it makes possible. The preamble must challenge assumptions defining older persons by their needs, and instead recognize them as rights holders shaping their lives and society. General principles must guide difficult decisions, competing considerations, and unforeseen circumstances. The catalogue of rights must advance how existing and emerging rights are understood and exercised across diverse life experience and changing societies. General obligations must require states not only to respond to violations, but also to transform laws, institutions, and the conditions that impede the full exercise of rights. Implementation, monitoring, and international cooperation must shift from counting commitments and reports to measuring change, identifying barriers, and mobilizing cooperation to overcome them. We call on Member States to develop these components as an integrated whole, building a transformative convention that enables older persons to live self-determined lives, remove barriers to the full enjoyment of their rights, and remains relevant to future generations as they grow older. Its success must be measured by the difference it makes on older people's lives. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of Conseil Suisse, Deme.

Merci.

Thank you for these strong, compelling statements on the reiterated, crucial intention to include older persons. I am speaking on behalf of the Swiss Council for Older Persons, an advisory body of the Swiss government, on all matters related to aging. A new day rises and it brings hope. for a legally binding convention that will bring tangible improvements to the lives of older persons today and tomorrow. Automation, technological acceleration, growing tensions, all of these can render fragile access to rights, increase isolation, and increase the digital divide. Given the headwinds and the walls protecting older persons must be higher and more solid in order that crises and political choices do not erode their rights and freedoms. Digitalization must not lock us into a world of automatism and procedure. Digital inclusion must be built on human contact and non-digital access to essential services. Being old must not mean being poor. We must retain purchasing power for retirees, ensure sufficient resources, adaptable housing which is affordable, and accessible care. States have an essential responsibility in effective access to these rights, social protection and combating poverty, combating ageism, discrimination, preventing violence, ensuring self-determination, these are basic requirements, with a particular focus on the inequalities experienced by older women. This convention must make it possible to transform thinking, the way we feel, the way we act regarding aging. This requires lifelong learning, access to employment. Building the rights of older persons is upholding this glimpse of life and humanity that brings us together over generations. Thank you.

Thank you, Council President Desanais. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Network of Equality Bodies. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I speak on behalf of EQuINET, the European Network of Equality Bodies, representing 49 equality bodies from 37 European countries. Equality bodies are independent institutions mandated under national and EU law to promote equality and combat discrimination on many grounds, including age. I would like to thank the Chair, the Secretariat, and the IGWG for their work and for the opportunity also to contribute to this process. You will find our full position online, jointly with the statement. Our contribution draws on more than two decades of European equality law in practice. It also reflects the experience of equality bodies in addressing age discrimination, handling complaints, litigating, and monitoring equality at a national level. Similar institutions exist across the globe, and their experience should sit alongside that of NHRIs and older persons' organizations. Today, I would like to bring five points. First, we urge the LBI to name ageism as a structural driver of rights violations against older persons. Ageism is embedded in laws and policies, not only in explicit acts. The Convention might also recognize older persons in all their diversity, including those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. Second, the Convention is clear operational definition of ageism, age discrimination, and older age. Third, equality and non-discrimination must be a core guiding principle of the Convention, and a state's obligation of immediate realization, directly justiciable and substantive in character. This includes a duty to integrate an age equality perspective into all legislation, policies, programs, and budgetary decisions affecting older persons. The Convention must also recognize that denying age-appropriate accommodation for older persons is discrimination. Fourth, access to justice must be expressly guaranteed in the Convention. Judicial and quasi-judicial procedures must be accessible, with alternatives to digital processes available. Sanctions for discrimination must also be effective, proportionate, and dissuasive, not only available in law. Fifth, We call for an independent national monitoring mechanism within a national monitoring framework, drawing from the experience of Article 33 of the CRPD. We ask it to be designated by law with a specified mandate, structural independence, and adequate resources. Older persons and their representative organizations must meaningfully participate in such a mechanism. As ECOWAS, we stand ready to contribute throughout this process, and we look forward to the exchanges ahead. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Universidad y Salud.

Thank you, Chairperson, distinguished delegates, older persons here with us today. I'm from Argentina. I'm 80 years old, and for over four decades, I've been addressing gerontology. in the University of Health in La Plata, and over the years I became a firm activist for human rights. Here, i advocate for the International Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, which is urgently needed. There are still prejudices and stereotypes which discriminate against older persons, and this brings multiple intersecting inequalities. Ageism must be combated in all forms. What is worse is when those who are carrying it out are in fact responsible for the rights of older persons. The voice of civil society is crucial in order to build on the acquired rights and to build follow-up mechanisms which are innovative, clear, and participatory, which ensure appropriate compliance because human rights are lifelong, no right may be taken away because of age. Each norm and each treaty, every statistic affects real persons, people who don't have decent food, people who come back from the pharmacy without their medicine because they can't afford it, people who can't get through broken infrastructure, people who can't have their independence, in particular women, people who not even know that I'm here today to, and we are here to defend their rights. Let us take this opportunity, let us shoulder this responsibility to build a fair, inclusive world where old age does not mean being afraid of violence or inequality, but where people are respected and integrated. We must recognize the forerunner, the Inter-American Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, persons, let us work untiringly today to transform this historic debt into a tangible reality. I thank you. Thank you very much.

Chair, distinguished delegates, ENERGO representatives, and fellow participants, I'm Fusako Seki of Kanagawa University. I'm pleased to join this work again, following the July session under the leadership of Chair, who had spoken up about this room being too small for such an important work, and alongside so many committed participants that there are nearly not enough seats for everyone. This legally binding instrument must be beyond reaffirming non-discrimination. It must clarify the relationship between prohibiting age discrimination and providing legitimate protection in older age. I propose setting out criteria in its text for distinguishing legitimate protection from age discrimination. I share the emphasis many have placed on dignity, autonomy, participation, and eliminating age discrimination. We should, however, move beyond recognizing rights to ensuring the protection needed to make them effective. Consider an older person doing hazardous work. To ensure their safety, we could adapt the work environment to make it age-friendly and respecting their wishes, provide additional breaks, or adjust working hours. Such age-related measurements can provide legitimate protection for their right to continue working. Yet, the same aim of ensuring safety could be invoked to force them out of work on the basis of age, disregarding their wishes or circumstances. That may constitute discrimination. When does an age-based discrimination provide legitimate protection? And when does it constitute discrimination? Developing these criteria requires a clear understanding of what it means to be an older person and the factors that follow from that understanding. I will return to this in the preamble discussion. Without this clarity, ratification and implementation of this instrument could be difficult. So, let us make these criteria explicit in this instrument. Building an existing human rights treaties, let us take human rights protection a step further. I ask this working group to address this task directly. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of International Association of Homes and Services for the aging.

On behalf of the Global Aging Network, we welcome this important stage in drafting a legally binding convention on the human rights of older persons. As the working group considers the convention's content, we emphasize three priorities. First, the convention must address ageism and discrimination, recognizing older people as rights holders.

Not simply recipients of care or protection.

Rights must not be determined or limited by perceived capability or changing support needs. Second, the Convention must recognise the diversity of ageing and encompass civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Dignity, autonomy, independence, choice, and participation must be protected, including when care and support are required. Third, rights must translate into everyday realities.

In homes, communities, healthcare settings, and care services, rights must be reflected in policies and practice.

This requires clear state obligations, effective implementation, independent monitoring, and accountability. The Global Ageing Network stands ready to contribute its international experience to the drafting process, alongside the voices and lived experiences of older people in all regions of the world. Our ambition must be a convention that not only protects rights, but enables every older person to live with dignity, purpose, opportunity, and choice. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of CNS and Development Justice for Older Persons.

Giving me the opportunity to speak as an older person with lived experience on behalf of CNS, Development Justice for Older Persons, and Sheehan Rights. Despite the principle of leaving no one behind, older persons remain largely invisible in human rights policies, data, and international monitoring mechanisms. This invisibility is particularly pronounced among older women, persons with disabilities, persons in unorganized or informal workspaces, persons living with HIV, indigenous peoples, gender diverse people, and other marginalized and vulnerable communities. But this invisibility or exclusion is often not accidental, because systemic barriers, prejudices, and patriarchy can deliberately leave certain groups among older persons outside policy discussions and protection frameworks. We need a feminist approach grounded in the development justice model while drafting this legally binding instrument. This would ensure that economic, social, gender, climate, and health justice, including sexual rights and universal healthcare and accountability to peoples, would be a reality for all older persons. And all of these are interdependent, inseparable, and non-negotiable. We must also recognize that attacks against health and gender rights will violate human rights of older persons too. For instance, States are urged to consider not supporting any efforts to undermine the already duly made commitments for health and gender rights, including in times of conflicts and natural disasters. We have to listen to the people we serve. This principle must guide us all through. Nothing about older persons without older persons. Aging is not just a welfare issue, it is a political issue. It is not about asking for some favor or mercy for us, but demanding our long overdue economic, social, and human rights. The preamble of this legally binding instrument must reinforce that older persons, especially those from the global south and those from marginalized and vulnerable populations, including women, are equitably engaged in shaping policies, programs, and their implementations at all levels. Also, in the preamble, the interconnectedness and indivisibility of economic rights, gender rights, health rights, social rights of older persons must be underlined. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the distinguished representative of European Green Seniors.

Hello everybody, I'm Christa Moller-Metzger from the European Green Seniors and I really like the GA-REP draft. It takes many important points into account. It is good that ageing is viewed as a continuous process, that further development of the agreement is also intended. and that such a strong focus has been placed on images of ageing and ageism. Positive images of ageing are also so important for future generations, as they are learned early on in life and help shape how young people view the future. Something I've noticed recently at various international events and which also struck me slightly in the GARP draft, is this: Just as older people are often forgotten when, for example, the focus is on a city for all, I get the impression that the queer community is easily sidelined when it comes to aging. Yet lesbian women, for example, are particularly affected by poverty in old age, loneliness, and a lack of participation. They often have broken life stories and have not come out for a long time, because it was taboo to talk about such things in our society. In existing organizations for older people, the queer community often only gains its rightful place after long and difficult struggle. And many would like care services that do not make them feel they have to constantly explain themselves. I would be grateful if this could be kept in mind as the work progresses. And another thing that struck me: greater consideration must be given to older people in the event of a disaster.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of Inclusion International.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, I am Manal Emhiri. I work with Inclusion International, the global network of persons with intellectual disabilities and their families. Our network was actively involved in shaping the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities more than 20 years ago. Since then, Article 12 on legal capacity and Article 19 on living independently and being included in the community have been game changers for persons with intellectual disabilities. Where governments have acted, lives have changed, but these rights are not yet fully realized. We therefore welcome this new instrument on the rights of older persons. It must build on the CRPD, advancing these rights further and never weakening what has already been won. We call on the working group to ensure that the future instrument reflects the following elements: First, the right to make decisions. Legal capacity and supported decision-making must be recognized for all older persons, including those with high support needs. Second, the right to live in the community with support based on choice and autonomy. COVID showed how dangerous institutions can be. Aging must never mean losing your home or community. Third, the right to social protection. Benefits and services must not be lost when people move into older age. Fourth, non-discrimination and accessibility, including information in accessible and easy-to-understand formats. Finally, many older persons with intellectual disabilities are supported by aging parents and relatives who are themselves older persons. Their rights and needs must be recognized too. Let this instrument protect older persons with intellectual disabilities and their families so that no one is left behind as they age. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Stakeholder Group on Ageing Africa.

Distinguished delegates and colleagues, Stakeholder Group on Ageing Africa appreciates the work of this Working Group and OHCHR in drafting the Convention on the Rights of Older Persons. Stakeholder Group on Ageing Africa aligns with the statement by Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People. In Africa, and like elsewhere in the world, every older person is entitled to live with dignity, make their own choices, and participate fully in society, with their human rights respected, protected, and fulfilled. This is a commitment a UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons must realize. This commitment reaches beyond Africa's 93 million older persons of today. With nearly 1.5 billion Africans under 60, it extends to generations of older people to come. The Convention must transform what it means to grow older with rights, dignity, and self-determination across Africa and the rest of the world. The African Union Protocol on the Rights of Older Persons, now in force, provides a regional human rights foundation, its development, ratification, and implementation efforts can inform and strengthen the global convention. The convention must uphold universal human rights across Africa's diverse realities, especially those of older African women, including those in the informal sector, changing family and community structures, harmful traditional practices, conflict, displacement, and climate change. change. It must address cumulative and intersecting discrimination, recognize older persons' contributions, and establish clear state obligations and accountability. Above all, older Africans must participate meaningfully in shaping the Convention. Beyond the negotiating table, accessible and inclusive pathways must enable diverse older Africans to contribute their lived experiences and perspective. Stakeholder Group on Aging Africa members stand united in ensuring older Africans' voices and perspectives help shape a convention that makes the full enjoyment of human rights in older age a reality for all. Thank you.

Thank you, Neghida, for the National Older Women's Network.

Thank you, Chair. And I would like to convey our Thanks for your generosity and welcoming of the non-government organisations here today. NOHNE is a member of GAROP, and we align ourselves to the statements offered today. With a rapidly ageing population worldwide, NOHNE believes that the time and urgency of this legally binding agreement is now. Aging is a natural, universal, and inevitable part of human life. It must never be regarded as a condition that diminishes a person's humanity, dignity, independence, or entitlement to the full and equal enjoyment of human rights. At the risk of repetition, older persons are not a homogeneous group defined by vulnerability, dependency, or declining capacity. They are individuals with diverse experiences, abilities, aspirations, and circumstances. They must be recognised as autonomous rights holders, entitled to equality, independence, self-determination, dignity and full participation in all aspects of society. This legally binding instrument must unequivocally affirm that human rights do not diminish with age, that enjoyment of those rights must never be conditional upon a person's health, functional capacity, economic circumstances, living arrangements, family relationships, or perceived contribution or value to a society. The National Older Women's Network remains concerned that existing international human rights instruments have not adequately addressed the specific forms of discrimination, exclusion and human rights violations experienced by older persons. Ageism, compounded by intersectional forms of discrimination, continue to deny older people the full equal enjoyment of their human rights. These inequalities are particularly evident amongst older women, Indigenous people, and those experiencing poverty, marginalisation and social exclusion. This legally binding instrument provides a critical opportunity to address the cumulative lifelong discrimination, economic inequality, and the disproportionate responsibility of unpaid care work, particularly as experienced by older women. This convention must recognise that disadvantage in older age is frequently the consequence of structural inequality, discrimination accumulated across the life course, rather than an inevitable consequence of ageing itself. It must also establish clear obligations on states to respect, protect and fulfil the rights of older people, ensuring that the responsibility for those rights are not shifted onto families, particularly to women. This convention must represent more than a reaffirming of existing human rights principle. Above all, it must recognise older people are equal members of society whose rights, choices, voices and contributions are respected throughout their lives. Human rights are universal, indivisible and lifelong. They do not diminish with age, and neither must the responsibility of states to uphold them. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the distinguished representative of Malawi Network of Older Persons Organizations.

As a member of GALOP, we align ourselves to the statement presented on its behalf. I have the honor to speak on behalf of Malawi Network of Older Persons Organizations. Existing international human rights instruments provide an important foundation, yet persistent gaps leave older persons exposed to ageism. discrimination, violence, neglect and exclusion. A dedicated, comprehensive and legally binding UN convention is therefore essential, not to create different human rights, but to ensure that the rights older persons already possess are explicitly recognised. effectively protected and fully realized. First, the Convention must explicitly prohibit ageism and age discrimination. It must address discrimination by public and private actors, including interpersonal, institutional, and structural discrimination. Second, equality must be substantive, intersectional and life-course based. The Convention must recognise the diverse experiences of older persons, particularly older women, persons with disability, those living in poverty, and people in rural and marginalised communities. Disadvantage in later life often reflects inequalities accumulated throughout a person’s lifetime. Third, older persons must be recognised as full rights holders. The Convention must protect their dignity, autonomy, legal capacity, and freedom to make decisions about their own lives. It must guarantee accessibility, reasonable accommodation, and meaningful participation in public affairs. Fourth, the Convention must guarantee the full spectrum of human rights, including emerging challenges such as digital exclusion, climate change, and displacement, and guarantee no regression from existing protection. Fifth, strong State obligations and accountability are indispensable. States must adopt effective laws, policies and budgets to prevent abuse, provide access to justice and effective remedies, and collect reliable disaggregated data. Robust international monitoring, involving national human rights institutions as older persons' organizations, must ensure that commitments translate into measurable progress. Malawi demonstrates that progress is possible through sustained advocacy by older persons and their organizations. Malawi enacted the Older Persons Act in 2024. This achievement affirms that meaningful participation can translate into legal recognition and national action. However, national legislation alone cannot close a global protection gap. Across Africa, older persons remain caregivers, farmers, workers, community leaders, and custodians of knowledge. They are not merely recipients of assistance. They are contributors to society and equal members of the human family. Their rights must be protected regardless of their circumstances, abilities, or age. MANAPO therefore calls upon Member States to advance a strong, comprehensive, and legally binding UN Convention developed with older persons, not merely for them. And let us remove from principles and enforceable rights, from commitments to accountability, and from recognition to meaningful protection. I thank you.

Thank you. This was the last speaker on my list. Excellencies, distinguished participants, this brings us to the end of this meeting. We will resume our work this afternoon at 3:00 PM for our plenary discussions under item 4 to discuss elements of the preamble. This session is adjourned.