UN secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon has warned all to put an end to age discrimination, abuse, neglect and violence against older persons.

“I urge states to put the necessary legal protections in place, and I urge all partners to help countries develop the capacity and institutions to achieve this objective”, he added.

Mr Ban issued this warning in his message to mark the celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the International Year of Older Persons.

This is based on the theme: “Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the International Year
of Older Persons: Towards a Society for All Ages”

In a press statement issued Thursday, Mr Ban noted that the UN has over the past decade intensified its efforts to build a “society for all ages” and to promote international commitment to the United Nations Principles for Older Persons.

“The Principles are founded on the need to build an inclusive society that emphasizes participation, self-fulfillment, independence, care and dignity for all”, he said.

“To transform them into deeds, we have campaigned for policies that will enable older persons to live in an environment that enhances their capabilities, fosters their independence, and provides them with adequate support and care as they age”, he added.

According to the statement, the motto “towards a society for all ages” was adopted in 1999 and reaffirmed at the Second World Assembly on Ageing, held in Madrid in 2002.

It emphasizes the need to treat older persons as both agents and beneficiaries of development. This emphasis – and the United Nations Principles – takes on even greater importance as the world struggles to confront global food, energy, climate, financial and economic crises.

Mr Ban, however, stressed the need for member states to “reaffirm our commitment to the vital work of upholding the UN Principles for Older Persons and achieving a society for all ages”.

By: Dorcas Efe Mensah/myjoyonline.com/Ghana

Source: myjoyonline