The voice of older people at the United Nations

8 November 2023, Bonn and online

Increasing digitalisation, climate change and the ageing of the population pose major challenges and opportunities for societies worldwide. These issues are also being discussed and agreements are reached at the United Nations (UN). But to what extent are older people involved and considered?

Civil society organisations have an important role alongside states at the UN in influencing the work of the international community, for example through statements at meetings or contributions to consultations. However, effective participation requires more than just time and commitment.

What expertise is needed to influence the work of the UN and thus help shape future policy? Which processes offer clues to bring in the voice of older people? And what are the immediate benefits of international agreements for ageing policy at the national level?

The launch event "The voice of older persons at the United Nations" focused specifically on showing how civil society can influence discussions at the UN and, conversely, use international agreements for national advocacy.

The conference was the kick-off of the event series "An engaged civil society as engine for an age-friendly society: an international exchange". Representatives of civil society had the opportunity to learn about the international framework and engaged in exchange with non-governmental organisations from countries in the UNECE region.

Programme of the conference