Delegation of the European Union to Russia

09/15/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/15/2023 06:32

Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons - EU Statement

United Nations Human Rights Council

54stsession

Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons

15 September 2023

EU Statement

Distinguished delegates,

The European Union would like reiterate its support for the mandate of the Independent Expert and takes note with appreciation of her report. The report is a step in the direction of broadening our understanding of the specific context of violence, abuse and neglect of older persons.

With the EU Strategy on Victim's Rights, our aim is to collect more precise data on cases of violence against older persons. We aspire to enhance both reporting rates and access to support and protection mechanisms for victims.

The EU notes that older persons face particular challenges in the enjoyment of their rights, with ageism being a significant risk factor for violence, abuse and neglect of older persons. As you mention in your report, hate speech against older persons is of particular concern and must be tackled by effective prevention and protection mechanisms as well as ensuring equal access to justice for older persons. The EU is deeply concerned that older women, who outnumber older men, often face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.

EU denounces and condemns all forms of discrimination, including age-based discrimination, and strongly condemns all forms of violence and neglect against older persons.

Madame Independent Expert,

You describe ageism as a significant risk factor for abuse of older persons. Could you please elaborate on the link between ageism and its impact on violence and neglect of older persons?