The universal human rights system and older people’s rights Human Rights Council Social Forum 3rd April 2014
Using existing IHR instruments Opportunities Periodic reporting General comments / recommendations Thematic studies Challenges CEDAW snapshot: Aug 2012 – Aug 2013 State Party reporting Committee’s list of issues GR but focus on original standards
Using existing IHR instruments Policy and guidance Drafted and adopted at different points in time By different bodies Focus on different thematic issues ≠ A comprehensive & systematic framework
Open-ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWGA) Established Dec 2010 to strengthen protection of older people’s rights by: Considering existing IHR framework Identifying possible gaps Considering feasibility of new instruments Dec 2012: consider main elements of a new legal instrument 4 sessions: April 2011; Aug 2011; Aug 2012; Aug 2013 5th session: July 30 – 1 Aug 2014
OEWGA: To date Limited Member State registration 1st Session, 2011: 36% 2nd Session, 2011: 26% 3rd Session, 2012: 33% 4th Session, 2013: 33% Regional imbalance in participation Polarized discussion
OEWGA: Member States Increased participation of African and Asian Member States More substantive debate Bureau ensure greater participation of older people Invited on to every panel Video links to capital Inclusion on Government delegations Consultation at national level before sessions
OEWGA: Civil society Bring lived experience of older people to the discussions Engagement with Government at national level Different Ministries Capital & Mission in New York Advocacy and campaigning Evidence and data Outreach to other constituencies