The Case for a UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons: Arguments for Action Now

 

In April 2025, the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted by consensus a historic resolution establishing a working group to begin drafting a legally binding international convention on the rights of older persons—a turning point after over a decade of dialogue. This breakthrough signals unprecedented momentum—but also a clear responsibility: to ensure the process delivers a strong, enforceable, and transformative convention.

 

This paper unites solid evidence and strategic advocacy to make a timely and compelling case. It brings together updated, cross-sectoral insights on the persistent protection gaps older persons face in health, care, disaster response, digital access, gender equality, climate justice, and more. It draws from expert reports, civil society campaigns, and institutional analyses to highlight why existing frameworks fall short—and why inaction is no longer an option.

 

Critically, the paper shifts the narrative from vulnerability to value: a convention would not only correct legal blind spots—it would generate tangible, systemic benefits. These include greater policy coherence, measurable progress on the SDGs, stronger protections against abuse, and a global affirmation that dignity does not diminish with age.

 

With the drafting process now formally underway, this paper argues that the time for polite hesitation has passed. The challenge is no longer whether a convention is needed—it is how bold and inclusive we are willing to make it.

Alejandro Bonilla-Garcia, MSc, PhD

Alejandro Bonilla-Garcia is a Swiss Mexican actuary and international expert in social protection and pensions. He holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics Applied to Economics and a PhD in Economic Policy and Development from the University of Social Sciences in Toulouse, France. He began his career in Mexico’s public sector before joining the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, where he served in senior roles including Senior Actuary, Deputy Regional Director for the Americas, Policy and Research Coordinator of the Social Protection Sector of the Ilo and Director of the Social Protection Department of the ILO.

With decades of experience in actuarial policy, social protection reform, and international labour standards, Alejandro has advised governments and institutions globally. He also held leadership roles at the International Social Security Association and served as Social Protection Attaché at the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the UN.

Currently, he is Chair of the NGO Committee on Ageing (Geneva) and represents the International Federation on Ageing at the United Nations.

Alejandro continues to advocate for inclusive, rights-based systems and currently works as Senior Consultant at Actuarial-i. His work bridges technical rigor and social justice for ageing populations worldwide.