Support grows for global push for UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons

Australia’s Age Discrimination Commissioner, Robert Fitzgerald AM, is adding his voice to an international call for stronger protections for older people during the Global Rally for Older People’s Rights, running from 1–7 February.

The Global Rally, organised by the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People, brings together communities, advocates and organisations worldwide through local events and online campaigns. Timed to align with key United Nations discussions, the initiative aims to build momentum for a new UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons.

Commissioner Fitzgerald said the absence of a binding international human rights instrument dedicated to older people remains a major gap.

“Despite the fact that populations are ageing rapidly across the globe and here in Australia, there is still no binding international human rights instrument dedicated to older people,” he said.

“This stands in stark contrast to the protections that exist for other groups, including on the basis of race, sex, disability and for children.”

The 2026 Global Rally comes at a critical moment. In April 2025, the UN Human Rights Council resolved to establish an Intergovernmental Working Group tasked with beginning the drafting of a Convention on the Rights of Older Persons. The group’s first meeting will take place this month.

Commissioner Fitzgerald described this as a historic opportunity.

“This is a historic opportunity to ensure that older people’s rights are clearly recognised, protected and promoted at the international level,” he said.

He said Australia has an important role to play in supporting the development of a strong convention that directly addresses ageism and systemic age discrimination.

“We welcome the Australian Government’s support of this process and its commitment to participate meaningfully and constructively in UN processes,” he said.

The Commissioner also called on the Government to ensure older people’s voices are central throughout the drafting process, and that civil society organisations can participate fully, including through hybrid engagement options.

Commissioner Fitzgerald highlighted the Human Rights as We Age Network, established in June 2025, which brings together civil society organisations, peak bodies and individuals committed to advancing the rights of older people in Australia and globally. He serves as co-Chair of the Network.

“Older people are rights-holders,” he said.

“The Global Rally is about momentum, solidarity and accountability. Everyone deserves to age with dignity, equality and respect and have those principles enshrined in an International Convention.”