1 October 2025 - The 35th United Nations International Day of Older Persons will be held on 1 October 2025 at United Nations Headquarters in New York putting a spotlight on the theme, ¡°Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights.¡±
Taking place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the ECOSOC Chamber, the event will highlight the leadership and agency of older persons in shaping inclusive societies, promoting equity, and ensuring their voices remain central to the global agenda on human rights, sustainable development, and resilience.
The commemoration will include the launch of the UN Inter-Agency Group on Ageing Common Messages on population ageing, older persons and their human rights, which are grounded in shared values and principles that guide collective efforts. The common messages reflect a commitment to coherence and impact, and align with intergovernmentally agreed mandates, outcomes, and priorities. The event will also feature the release of a policy brief on unlocking the power of older persons in localizing the Sustainable Development Goals. Together, these initiatives reaffirm the importance of integrating ageing into policy frameworks.
The programme will include a keynote address, a musical performance, and a panel discussion on themes including combating age discrimination and promoting community inclusion; advancing rights and dignity for older refugees, women, and lifelong learners; supporting older workers through skills development and intergenerational opportunities; and showcasing lifelong engagement through active ageing. These topics reflect the breadth of contributions older persons make to society and the need for stronger policies to ensure their empowerment.
By amplifying the aspirations, well-being, and rights of older persons, the event will underscore their essential role as advocates, experts, and partners in building equitable and resilient societies for all generations.
The event is sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Argentina and co-sponsored by the Group of Friends of Older Persons and the Group of Friends on Ageing and Sustainable Development.
To engage on social media, the online community is encouraged to use the hashtags #UNIDOP2025 and #OlderPersonsDay.
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