Kuwait Supports Binding International Framework to Protect Older Persons

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 16, 2026

Kuwait expressed strong support for establishing a legally binding international framework to protect the rights of older persons at the first UN working group meeting in New York. This initiative aims to address global human rights gaps by promoting the dignity, inclusion, and empowerment of older adults while guiding member states in adopting comprehensive, consensus-driven protections.

Kuwait reiterated its support for the creation of a legally binding international framework aimed at protecting the rights of older persons during a meeting of the United Nations intergovernmental working group on Wednesday. The session, held in New York, marked the first gathering of this open-ended group tasked with drafting the proposed instrument.

Hanan Al-Sultan, Third Secretary at Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Human Rights Affairs Department, emphasized the significance of such a framework in addressing existing gaps within the global human rights system. She noted that the instrument would serve to safeguard the dignity, independence, and active societal participation of older individuals worldwide.

Al-Sultan outlined Kuwait’s view of older persons as vital contributors to national development and essential pillars of society. She highlighted Kuwait’s ongoing domestic efforts to enhance legislation and policies concerning older adults, strengthen healthcare and social services, and promote active aging.

Regarding the development process of the international instrument, Kuwait advocates for negotiations that are both comprehensive and consensus-driven, taking into account the diverse legal systems and national circumstances of member states. Al-Sultan stressed that the framework should prioritize empowerment of older persons, their inclusion in decision-making processes, and protection against discrimination, violence, and neglect.

Additionally, she underscored the importance of improving older persons’ access to modern technologies and digital services. The framework should also incorporate their needs in disaster risk reduction and emergency response strategies. Enhancing international cooperation, building capacity, and improving data collection and statistical systems related to older persons were further emphasized as critical components to elevating the quality of services provided to this demographic.

Kuwait pledged to maintain active and constructive engagement throughout the working group’s process, advocating for a balanced and effective international instrument that promotes the rights of older persons. The country expressed hope that the resulting framework would contribute to the development of more inclusive, just, and sustainable societies globally.

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