The universal human rights system and older peoples
- Slides: 7
The universal human rights system and older people’s rights Human Rights Council Social Forum 3 rd April 2014
Using existing IHR instruments Opportunities • Periodic reporting • General comments / recommendations • Thematic studies Challenges CEDAW snapshot: Aug 2012 – Aug 2013 • State Party reporting • Committee’s list of issues • GR but focus on original standards
Using existing IHR instruments • Policy and guidance • Drafted and adopted at different points in time • By different bodies • Focus on different thematic issues ≠ A comprehensive & systematic framework
Open-ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWGA) Established Dec 2010 to strengthen protection of older people’s rights by: • • • Considering existing IHR framework Identifying possible gaps Considering feasibility of new instruments Dec 2012: consider main elements of a new legal instrument 4 sessions: April 2011; Aug 2012; Aug 2013 5 th session: July 30 – 1 Aug 2014
OEWGA: To date • Limited Member State registration 1 st Session, 2011: 36% 2 nd Session, 2011: 26% 3 rd Session, 2012: 33% 4 th Session, 2013: 33% • Regional imbalance in participation • Polarized discussion
OEWGA: Member States • Increased participation of African and Asian Member States • More substantive debate • Bureau ensure greater participation of older people ØInvited on to every panel ØVideo links to capital ØInclusion on Government delegations ØConsultation at national level before sessions
OEWGA: Civil society Bring lived experience of older people to the discussions • Engagement with Government at national level Ø Different Ministries Ø Capital & Mission in New York • Advocacy and campaigning • Evidence and data • Outreach to other constituencies
