CIVIL SOCIETY MATTERS!

A historic week for the human rights of older persons!

From 26–30 October 2026, governments, national human rights institutions and civil society gathered at the UN Palais des Nations in Geneva for IGWG2, advancing work towards a legally binding UN Convention on the Human Rights of Older Persons.

The week began with an NGO preparatory meeting organized by GAROP in partnership with the NGO Committee on Ageing (Geneva), strengthening coordination and meaningful participation.

FIVE KEY AREAS GUIDED THE DISCUSSIONS:

Preamble: Vision, purpose and fundamental values. • Definitions: Inclusive concepts of older persons and age discrimination • General Principles and State Obligations: Principles and responsibilities underpinning protection • Catalogue of Rights: Closing protection gaps and ensuring equal enjoyment of rights • Implementation, Monitoring and International Cooperation:

THE ROAD AHEAD: 2026–2027

Ten countries were appointed as cofacilitators: Philippines, Serbia, Slovenia, Uruguay, The Gambia, Qatar, Australia, Brazil, Malta and Lesotho.

The proposed timeline sets out the next steps:

November 2026: New call for inputs from States and stakeholders.
December 2026–April 2027: Consultations led by the cofacilitators.
May–July 2027: Preparation and presentation of draft elements at IGWG3.
August–October 2027: Regional consultations and preparation of a zero draft.
November 2027: Presentation of the zero draft at IGWG4 and nomination of The Gambia for the 2028 Chairmanship.

Civil society was present, coordinated and engaged. The journey continues!

IGWG2 recordings:

https://webtv.un.org/en

GAROP discussion papers:

https://rightsofolderpeople.org/content-of-a-convention/

VISION

A world in which all people can age with dignity, equality, and full enjoyment of their human rights, and where ageing is recognised as a shared human experience that contributes to inclusive, sustainable, and just societies for all generations.

MISSION

The NGO Committee on Ageing (Geneva) works to advance the rights of older persons and ensure their full inclusion across the life course.

From Geneva to the global stage, we convene civil society, United Nations actors, and partners to promote a UN convention on the rights of older persons, advance rights-based and inclusive policies, strengthen participation and accountability, combat ageism, and support evidence-based action.

Through advocacy and dialogue, we contribute to building inclusive, sustainable societies for all generations, where no one is left behind.

WHAT WE DO

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WHERE WE WORK

United Nations International Day of Older Persons