On February 18, I had the privilege of serving as the keynote speaker at the historic inaugural session of the United Nations working group dedicated to negotiating a convention aimed at the protection of the rights and dignity of older individuals, which is set to be adopted by the Human Rights Council. In my remarks, I drew inspiration from Martin Luther King Jr., recalling his vision for equity and inclusion articulated during his iconic 1963 address at the Lincoln Memorial. I emphasized the universal bond among humanity, asserting that regardless of our skin color, gender, religion, or age, we are all interconnected and have a communal responsibility to care for the most vulnerable members of our society.

I pointed out that too often, our societies drive wedges between people, discriminating against them based on their differences and reacting aggressively towards those they perceive as 'other.' This attitude not only undermines social cohesion but also silences the voices of those in need, particularly older persons, who often face neglect and marginalization. The initiative to create binding conventions for the protection of older individuals is crucial, as it acknowledges their contributions to society and affirms their right to live with dignity and respect.

The development of this convention is a significant step towards addressing the injustices faced by older populations and ensuring that their rights are respected. It also serves as a call to action for all nations to unite in fostering an inclusive environment where the elderly are valued and cared for. By recognizing their inherent rights, we not only honor their lives but also enrich the fabric of our societies. The task ahead is great, but it is one that requires the commitment of all to uphold the dignity of our elder citizens.