United Nations proclaimed 1999 the International Year of Older Persons

Peace Times 10

UN symbol for the International Year of Older Persons

Secretary General Kofi Annan: «Older people, are both agents and beneficiaries of global development»
A rich and varied calendar of events both in the USA and Europe to sensitise public opinion

«A society for all ages is one that does not caricature older persons as patients and pensioners» said Secretary General Kofi Annan. «Instead it sees them as both agents and beneficiaries of development». Last October, the United Nations officially launched the International Year of Older Persons (IYOP),1999, under the theme «Towards a society for all». In its proclamation on ageing, the General Assembly is optimistic that the coming decade will see an increase in partnerships as well as practical initiatives and resources devoted to ageing, and is welcoming the growing contributions of older persons both to economic, social and cultural development, convinced that in a world characterised by an expanding number and proportion of older persons, such opportunities must be provided. Member States Goverments are encouraged to incorporate basic principles into their national programmes as part of an international plan of action on ageing where older people are concerned by assuring their independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment and dignity.

A special logo was designed by the United Nations which is intended to promote awareness and activities pertaining to the International Year of Older Persons, 1999. The core design shows a swirl of concentric lines, its continuity and movement symbolise the continuing development and diversity of older persons, the continuity of life stages, the interdependence of generations, and the promise of humanity’s progression towards an age-integrated society - «Towards a society for all ages».

As we stand on the threshold of a new millennium, a sort of coming of age, it is time to look ahead and strengthen multi-generational partnerships through social, economic, cultural and spiritual undertakings, towards global peace and planetary development.

A rich calendar of events in support of the IYOP 1999 are taking place around the globe until December, including the United States, Austria, Korea, Germany, and many more. At United Nations Headquarters a conference is planned for the 10th and 11th of February «Caring Communities for the 21st Century: Villages and Cities for all Generations Towards a Community for All», organised in coordination with the IYOP secretariat and the United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (HABITAT), as well as NGOs and the private sector.

By promoting the United Nations’ principles for older persons, we can all contribute to the creation of an international community that offers opportunities and higher standards of living for all persons of all ages.

Isthar D.-Adler