Voices of Older Persons Must Be Heard in Shaping Policies, Building Inclusive Societies, Says Secretary-General, Marking International Day

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres' message for the International Day of Older Persons, observed on 1 October:

The number of people over 60 has more than doubled in the past 30 years to 1.2 billion. By 2050, another 900 million older persons will be a part of our human family. This is a profound demographic shift, with far-reaching consequences for economies, health systems and social cohesion.

We must respond with foresight and action. That means ensuring that the rights of older persons are fully respected, their dignity upheld and their contributions recognized.

As this year's theme reminds us, older persons are powerful agents of change. Their voices must be heard in shaping policies, ending age-discrimination and building inclusive societies.

All communities and ages benefit from the wisdom of older persons. They have much to teach about navigating uncertainty, resolving conflict and building solidarity across generations.

Let's commit to listening, learning and acting. Let's build a world where all people - of every age - can live with respect, security and opportunity.