The Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) joins the international community in celebrating the International Day of Older Persons, observed annually on October 1st. This celebration culminates a series of international initiatives that started with the 1982 Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, and then the 2002 Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, aimed at meeting the opportunities and challenges related to ageing in the 21st century and promoting the contributions of older persons to community development.
While appreciating the theme chosen by the United Nations for the 2024 observance, “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide”, ALECSO calls for intensifying national efforts in all Arab States and for increasing collaboration with the international community to transform this theme—focused on preserving the dignity of older persons and enhancing their contribution to sustainable development—into practical plans and projects aimed at building equitable and productive societies.
ALECSO recognizes the significance of this theme which highlights the value of older persons to society. This is all the more significant when we know that population ageing has now become a global phenomenon likely to reshape societies worldwide. Today, individuals reaching age 65 are expected to live an average of 16.8 additional years, with a particularly accelerated pace in developing countries.
Based on these statistics indicating a demographic shift in human societies, ALECSO calls for the enhancement of elderly care in Arab countries. It emphasizes the need to provide them with healthcare and social support, while expanding training and education opportunities in geriatrics. ALECSO also underscores the importance of community practices that ensure the right older persons to a dignified life that meets their needs and enriches their contributions to sustainable development.
On this global occasion, ALECSO extends its warmest congratulations to all older persons in Arab countries, and expresses its appreciation, gratitude and recognition for their generous and valuable efforts in the process of building and developing their countries.
