UNIS/SGSM/1351
28 September 2023
This year’s International Day of Older Persons coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
To realize the promise of the Declaration, we must do more to protect the dignity and rights of older persons everywhere.
Challenges abound. Ageism is rampant in societies. From the COVID-19 pandemic to poverty and climate emergencies, older persons are often among the first victims of crises.
Addressing these and other issues is a human rights imperative that will benefit everyone.
Older persons are invaluable sources of knowledge and experience and have much to contribute towards peace, sustainable development, and protecting our planet.
We must ensure their active engagement, full participation, and essential contributions – including through social and workplace policies built around their specific needs.
We must promote lifelong learning, quality healthcare, and digital inclusion.
And we must foster intergenerational dialogue and unity.
Together, let us build more inclusive and age-friendly societies and a more resilient world for all.
* *** *
A new analysis from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) released today finds that legal protection of the environment varies widely by country and region in terms of crimes covered and punishments given, and highlights priority areas for consideration to strengthen prevention and curb crimes that affect the environment.
"As we mark this Day for Biological Diversity, let us commit to be Part of the Plan. Let us act urgently to put biodiversity on a path to recovery." — António Guterres
"On World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, we celebrate the power of communication tools to change lives for the better." — António Guterres
"On this International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, I applaud the brave work of LGBTIQ+ human rights defenders fighting to outlaw discrimination and secure equality before the law." — António Guterres