Every year, on October 1st, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons, a day dedicated to honoring and recognizing the invaluable contributions of our elderly population. This observance serves as a reminder of the wisdom, experiences, and challenges faced by older individuals, as well as a call to action for creating a society that respects and values people of all ages.

The roots of this special day trace back to December 14, 1990, when the United Nations General Assembly passed a historic resolution (45/106) designating October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons. This significant step was not taken in isolation; it was a part of a broader effort to address the issues surrounding an aging global population.

Before this designation, several initiatives were undertaken to acknowledge the unique needs and rights of older persons. The Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, adopted during the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing, was a groundbreaking document that set the stage for future discussions on aging. Later in the same year, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed this plan, solidifying the commitment of the international community to the cause of older persons.

In 1991, the General Assembly went a step further by adopting the United Nations Principles for Older Persons through resolution 46/91. These principles outlined a comprehensive framework for ensuring the well-being, dignity, and rights of older individuals, addressing issues such as independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment, and more.

The year 2002 marked another significant milestone in the journey to recognize and support older persons. The Second World Assembly on Ageing convened in Madrid and produced the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing. This forward-looking document aimed to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the demographic shift towards an aging global population in the 21st century. It outlined strategies for creating a society for all ages, emphasizing the importance of promoting active aging, eradicating age discrimination, and ensuring access to healthcare and social services for older individuals.

Today, as we observe the International Day of Older Persons, it is important to reflect on the global demographic landscape. In 2019, there were approximately 703 million people aged 65 or over worldwide. The region of Eastern and South-Eastern Asia was home to the largest number of older persons, with 261 million individuals falling into this age group. Europe and Northern America closely followed, with over 200 million older persons combined.

This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities for societies around the world. While older persons bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and resilience, they also require adequate support, healthcare, and social inclusion. It is essential that we continue to work towards creating a world where people of all ages are valued, respected, and empowered to live fulfilling lives.

On this International Day of Older Persons, let us celebrate the contributions of our elders and commit to building a more inclusive and age-friendly world where everyone can age with dignity and purpose. As we honor the past, let us also look to the future and ensure that the journey of aging is marked by well-being, respect, and the opportunity for all individuals to thrive, regardless of their age.

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