EU Statement - HRC60 - Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons
United Nations Human Rights Council
60st session
Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment
of all human rights by older persons
17 September 2025
EU statement
Mr President,
The European Union thanks the Independent Expert for her report on the intersection between older persons' rights to social protection and to work. The report notes severe disparities and inequalities in lived realities of older persons. It asserts that dignity, autonomy and equality for all in old age can be achieved only through a rights-based, intersectional and life-course approach to ageing.
EU and its Member States are addressing the challenges of ageing societies by promoting lifelong learning and enhancing skills systems, encouraging longer and healthier working lives, and reforming social protection and pension systems.
Under the EU law, age-based discrimination in employment and occupation is expressly prohibited, safeguarding older persons from unequal treatment in recruitment, promotion, training, and workplace conditions.
European citizens are entitled to social security benefits and services, including in old age, ensuring a life free from poverty or exclusion. The European Pillar of Social Rights reinforces this by guaranteeing adequate pensions and equal pension rights for all. In this regard, the EU will continue to engage with relevant UN bodies to enhance the protection and enjoyment of human rights of older persons
Madame Independent Expert,
Could you share examples of targeted strategies that governments could implement to ensure that every older person has access to social protection?
Thank you.