2024 INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR OLDER PERSONS MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

On this International Day for Older Persons, observed annually on October 1st, we come together to honor and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our senior citizens. This year being the 34th anniversary of its commemoration since its establishment by the United Nations in 1990, we embrace the theme "Human Rights across Generations," which serves as a poignant reminder of the fundamental rights that belong to every individual, regardless of age.

Older persons are a vital part of our society, possessing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and wisdom that enriches our communities. Their contributions span various sectors, from family life to community engagement, and their roles as mentors and caregivers are irreplaceable. However, we must also recognize the unique challenges they face, including ageism, social isolation, and barriers to accessing essential services.

The proportion of older persons in Fiji defined as people aged 60+, has been steadily increasing. According to ESCAP, the older population comprises 10% of the total population and will reach15 % of the population by 2050. This is an indicator that there is a need to prepare ourselves for an ageing population.

The Fiji Government’s commitment to older persons is enshrined under Fiji’s 2013 constitution which provides for a wide range of socio-economic rights. These rights include a citizen’s right to education, access to health care, housing and sanitation, reasonable access to transportation, food security and safe water, and social security schemes.

In 2012, the Fiji Government passed the National Council for Older Persons Act. Through this Act, Government has established an advisory body currently under the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection to establish the National Council of Older Persons whose role is specifically to strengthen the partnership and collaboration between the Government, families, community based organizations, traditional village communities, non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations and the private sector, through creating an inclusive, protective, healthy and supportive environment for older persons; and represent the rights and interests of older persons in Fiji at all levels.

Furthermore, 2024 has seen a lot of initiatives in relation to Ageing implemented. The Fiji Government endorsed the Policy for Board of Visitors for the three Golden Age Homes. Moreover, the Ministry carried out a series of Divisional Consultations for Older Persons and held its National General Assembly for Older Persons. The aim of these forums was to provide older persons a platform to share their experiences and highlight challenges they faced. Currently, the ministry is working to review Fiji’s initial Ageing Policy of 2011, to ensure that the realities of Ageing in the Fiji context is incorporated in efforts to ensure care and support systems are strengthened through greater collaboration amongst all stakeholders ensuring our senior citizens are able to live a life of dignity.

As we commemorate this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of older persons. It is imperative that we advocate for policies and practices that strengthen care and support systems for older persons in our collective effort to ensure their dignity, well-being, and active participation in society. Further to this, there is a call to highlight the urgent need to expand training and educational opportunities in aged care, address the global shortage of care workers, and recognize the diverse contributions of caregivers. 

During this commemoration let us recognize the importance of protecting the human rights of both caregivers and care recipients, promoting person-centered approaches to care that respect the dignity, beliefs, needs, and privacy of older persons, and for the right to make decisions about their care and quality of their lives. We must work collectively to dismantle stereotypes and create an inclusive environment where older individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

The theme "Human Rights across Generations" calls upon us to foster intergenerational solidarity and understanding. It is our responsibility to ensure that the rights of older persons are upheld and that their voices are heard in discussions that affect their lives. By doing so, we not only honor their legacy but also pave the way for a more equitable future for all generations.

Let us take this opportunity to engage with our communities, raise awareness about the issues facing older persons, and advocate for their rights. Together, we can build a society that values and respects individuals of all ages.

Happy International Day for Older Persons!