Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons

Statement by Finland on the report by the Independent Expert on her country visit to Finland

Mr. President,

Finland attaches great importance to the work of the UN Special Procedures mandate holders. Finland highly values the constructive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons, Ms. Claudia Mahler. The Government appreciates the initiative taken by the Independent Expert to visit Finland. 

The country visit, first of its’ kind to a Nordic country, provided an important opportunity to exchange information and views on the implementation of laws and policies on the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons in Finland. The Independent Expert focused on discrimination and intersectionality, social protection, care, education, digitalization and right to self-determination. The Government notes with appreciation the comprehensive recommendations provided. The recommendations will be considered carefully and transparently.

Mr. President,

The Government of Finland is fully committed to ensure the human rights of older persons. The promotion and protection of the rights of the persons in vulnerable positions is our long-standing priority. The Government’s Human Rights Policy report, which was presented to Parliament in December 2021, prioritizes the strengthening of non-discrimination, gender equality and participation rights. It highlights the need to ensure the equal rights, inclusion, participation and access to services and information of older persons, whose economic, social or health status is the most vulnerable.The Independent Expert notes in her report Finland’s long-standing monitoring mechanisms of the various ombudspersons, including the newly established ombudsperson for older personsFinland continues its considerable efforts to include older persons in the society, in the framework of the comprehensive and inclusive social protection system. We take careful note on the recommendations related to inclusion of the diversity of the older persons in specific measures. As stated in the report, Finland has adopted a cross –government National Programme on Ageing 2030.

Regarding the right to self-determination, the Independent Expert notes the need for comprehensive legal safeguards for older persons on regulating preconditions for restrictive measures. Acknowledging the shortcomings in the current legal framework, Finland continues the legislative drafting process in order to strengthen the right to self-determination of older persons.

As regards digitalization, education and life-long learning, Finland highlights the need to ensure that new technologies and digitalization help to enhance equality and human rights for all, both online and offline.

To conclude, Mr. President,

Finland reiterates its strong support to the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons, including the renewal of this important mandate. 

Thank you.