The economic, social and cultural rights of older persons 1995, para. 5
Paragraph- Original document
- Document type
- General Comment / Recommendation
- Paragraph text
In 1991, the General Assembly adopted the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, which, because of their programmatic nature, also constitute an important document in the present context. The Principles are divided into five sections which correlate closely to the rights recognized in the Covenant. The section entitled "Independence" includes access to adequate food, water, shelter, clothing and health care. To these basic rights are added the opportunity for remunerated work and access to education and training. Under "Participation", it is stated that older persons should participate actively in the formulation and implementation of policies that affect their well-being and share their knowledge and skills with younger generations, and should be able to form movements and associations. The section headed "Care" proclaims that older persons should benefit from family care and health care and be able to enjoy human rights and fundamental freedoms when residing in a shelter, care or treatment facility. With regard to "Self-fulfilment", the Principles state that older persons should be able to pursue opportunities for the full development of their potential through access to the educational, cultural, spiritual and recreational resources of their societies. Lastly, the section entitled "Dignity" states that older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of exploitation and physical or mental abuse, should be treated fairly, regardless of age, gender, racial or ethnic background, disability or other status, and should be valued independently of their economic contribution.
- Document legal status
- Non-negotiated soft law
- Document body
- Treaty bodies: CESCR - Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
- Document means of adoption
- N.A.
- Topic(s)
- Education
- Equality & Inclusion
- Health
- Person(s) affected
- Older persons
- Document year
- 1995
- Paragraph type
- Other
- Reference
- CESCR General Comment No. 6, The economic, social and cultural rights of older persons (1995), para. 5.
- Paragraph number
- 5