Delegates at the United Nations' high-level meeting on ageing have called for renewed commitment to creating inclusive societies that empower older individuals to participate fully in economic, political, social, and cultural life. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to ensure older persons can work as long as they wish and live with dignity.

Morocco's representative outlined a national strategy aimed at enhancing social protection for older citizens, which spans from 2021 to 2030. This strategy focuses on four key objectives: reducing poverty among older persons, providing a minimum income, strengthening social assistance, and enabling continued employment post-retirement. The initiative aligns with the Madrid Plan of Action, which emphasizes the importance of intergenerational solidarity as the global population ages.

Austria's delegate expressed strong support for the ongoing efforts to protect the human rights of older persons, commending the work of the open-ended working group on ageing. Austria backed the recent decision by the Human Rights Council to establish an intergovernmental working group tasked with drafting a legally binding instrument on the rights of older individuals. This move is seen as a significant step towards giving older persons a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.

The meeting underscored the importance of lifelong learning and reskilling opportunities, advocating for policies that extend beyond traditional life stages of education, work, and retirement. As the demographic landscape shifts, the call for mutual support across generations becomes increasingly vital, ensuring that societies can adapt to the needs of all age groups.

The discussions at this meeting signal a pivotal moment in addressing the rights and needs of older persons, with a clear focus on actionable strategies that promote their well-being and integration into society.