The Arab region is witnessing demographic changes characterized by a persisting youth bulge coupled with a fast increase in the numbers and proportions of older persons referred to as “population ageing”. This reality has increased the challenges faced by Arab countries to address the needs and priorities of older persons and ensure them a dignified life.
Despite the efforts exerted by countries to develop policies that are inclusive of older persons’ issues, the regular reviews of international agreements and frameworks, including MIPAA, indicate that older persons are at an increased risk of vulnerability and exclusion. Hence the need to develop comprehensive and cohesive policies that address the needs and priorities of older persons.
In this context, ESCWA organized a workshop aimed at building the capacity of member states to mainstream priorities and issues of older persons in policy making. The workshop also provided a platform to exchange knowledge and experiences among countries on tools, challenges, and lessons learned in relation to policies that are responsive to older persons’ issues.
In addition, the workshop provided an opportunity to discuss preparations for the fourth regular review of MIPAA and to agree on a preliminary road map for the review methodology in the Arab region which should start in 2021.
The workshop was organized virtually on 11 and 12 November 2020, with the participation of a number of focal points on ageing appointed by member states.
Amman, Jordan
