57th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Independant Expert on the Rights of Older Persons

Mister President,

My Delegation takes note of the report of the Independent Expert and, in particular, her reflections on the impact that ageism and narratives of decline can have on the exercise of legal capacity by older persons.^[1] While there is a fragility that comes with age, narratives of decline and, in particular, ageist attitudes often obscure the inherent dignity of older persons, devalue or minimise their contribution to society and limit the full realisation and enjoyment of all their rights.

Mister President,

It is necessary to counter these narratives of decline by cultivating “respect for the dignity of the human person beyond all circumstances,”[2] including the vulnerabilities of old age. The infinite, inalienable and inherent nature of human dignity must be the cornerstone of the effective protection of human rights.[3] Yet all too often, especially in the case of older persons, dignity can be qualified or conditional. It can be based on a consumerist mentality that measures human worth in terms of productivity or cost savings and efficiency. “Doing” rather than “being” becomes the determinant of policy-making and limits the enjoyment of all human rights.

This pervasive attitude was unfortunately highlighted during the COVID-19 Pandemic, as it showed that our societies are not organized enough to make room for the elderly, with proper respect for their dignity and their fragility. Also today, societies are challenged, when one looks at the ways in which the elderly are institutionalised or isolated and excluded from society. Its most pernicious expression can be found in cultures that have legalised assisted suicide and euthanasia. Such cultures inevitably undermine decision-making and choice in later life: older persons do not want to be seen as a burden on their families, friends or communities and such pathways provide what could be seen as an “easy solution”.

Pope Francis has consistently promoted old age as a blessing, rather than a burden for society.[4] He encourages us to see older persons as a resource and a wealth for society, because they are the memory of a people, and without respect for the elderly, there can be no future for society.[5] In this regard, it is evident that the family is the primary and privileged place where inter-generational respect and love is fostered and where the future of a society is secured. Churches, along with other places of worship, reflect this conviction and often remain one of the few public spaces where love, service and respect between generations are nurtured and where older persons are welcomed, integrated and supported.

Thank you, Mister President.