Soroptimist International and the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People organized a virtual rally for the human right of older women in rural communities in March 2023. This Rally was part of the 2023 Global Rally campaign and a parallel side event of the 67th Session of the NGO Committee on the Status of Women. More than 200 people registered for the session. A great majority of participants were older women.

Stories of Inequities

Panelists shared stories of age discrimination, ageism, and human rights violations. These stories were from rural Kenya, rural Nepal, and other rural areas. These stories highlighted systematic human rights violations in the areas of spousal estate, health and access to health services, social security, violence, abuse, basic literacy, and the multiple forms of discrimination faced by older people because of their intersecting identities (i.e., age, gender, and sexual orientation).

The powerful stories shed light on the grim and inequitable realities of marginalized and vulnerable older women in rural communities. The stories brought tears and anger.

Action for Change

The final session segment was a presentation on:

  • why the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women is not enough,
  • the past and ongoing work on the human rights of older people,
  • and the impetus toward a UN convention on the rights of older people.

Panelist made the same four calls to action from the Canadian Rally in this session. Some audience wanted to know what they could do now. Some made follow-up inquiries.

When polled, session participants identified the following activities as most helpful in empowering their advocacy efforts:

  • A story bank and the sharing of practices
  • A network of advocates
  • Human rights knowledge

 

Unlocking the power and experiences of women to speak up and stand for the rights of older women and all older people will spur our movement forward. If you want to learn more or get involved, please get in touch with the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People or me!