Ministry of Gender and Family has launched the first-ever National Elderly Policy today, at a special ceremony held at Islamic University to mark the International Day of Older Persons.
The Policy inaugurated by the Chief Guest of the ceremony, Vice President H.E. Abdulla Jihad, recognizes the social and economic challenges faced by elderly persons in the community, highlights ways to improve their well-being and protection, and encourages their participation in the community as responsible citizens. Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice President noted that “the experiences acquired by senior citizens are an unseen, intangible asset, and that it is the greatest treasure of a nation.”
Addressing the ceremony, Minister of Gender and Family H.E. Zenysha Shaheed Zaki stated that the contributions of senior citizens should be appreciated and recognized, and added that “they should be encouraged to engage in social activities, and be involved in decision-making processes.” Minister Zenysha also noted that the policy was formulated after consultations with stakeholders and based on information obtained through the “Ranveyla” campaign conducted by the Ministry.
The National Elderly Policy is guided by the basic principles enshrined in the Constitution of the Maldives, “UN Principles for Older Persons 1991”, “WHO Global Strategy and Plan of Actions on Aging and Health 2016-2020”, and the Sustainable Development Goals for 2015-2030.The 4 main focus areas of the policy are “care and protection”, “independence and participation”,” health and wellbeing” and “preparation for old age”.
The International Day of Older Persons is marked every year to appreciate the contributions that older persons make to society, and to raise awareness on the challenges they face, following a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly passed in 1991.
01 October 2017