WUF13 features Rights of Older Persons Roundtable
Baku, May 20, AZERTAC
A roundtable discussion entitled “The Rights of Older Persons” was held as part of the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), under the theme “Housing for life: adequate housing for all older persons”.
Moderated by renowned architect and urbanist Claudio Acioly and opened with a welcome address by Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), the discussion focused on how housing systems can support dignity, independence, and safety throughout people’s lives.
Experts, international organization representatives, urbanists, and human rights advocates emphasized that population ageing has become a major challenge for modern cities, with discussions focusing on affordable housing, inclusive urban planning, infrastructure adaptation, and the protection of older persons’ rights. They stressed that housing should be seen not only as a physical space but also as a foundation for social inclusion and quality of life, highlighting the need for barrier-free environments, expanded social housing, and long-term support mechanisms for older persons.
Discussions also included calls for closer cooperation between states, municipalities, and civil society. Speakers stressed that only a comprehensive approach can create cities where people of all ages are able to maintain their independence and actively participate in public life.