The International Day of Older Persons, observed annually on October 1st, has prompted the Congolese branch of the International Network for Social Protection Rights (INSPIR-RDC) to advocate for a law safeguarding the rights of elderly citizens. INSPIR-RDC's National Coordinator, Aisée Atum Kassuniin, emphasized that the Democratic Republic of Congo lags behind in protecting its elderly population, lacking a specific law promoting and protecting their rights.
Kassuniin urged the Congolese Parliament, comprising the National Assembly and Senate, to expedite the examination and adoption of a proposed law aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of elderly citizens. She described this law as a moral obligation of the Republic towards those who contributed to its development. Without a binding legal framework, the rights to healthcare, social security, protection, and inclusion of elderly persons will remain ineffective, Kassuniin noted.
INSPIR-RDC extended its commitment to combating all forms of abuse, neglect, accusations of witchcraft, and abandonment faced by elderly individuals across the DRC. Kassuniin conveyed a message of solidarity to elderly citizens, affirming that their wisdom serves as a compass for the nation and that their age is a blessing deserving respect and dignity.
The INSPIR-RDC coordinator also called upon the government, specifically the Ministry of Social Affairs, to ensure effective and dignified care for existing elderly homes, often left abandoned, and provide immediate humanitarian assistance to indigent elderly persons without shelter, living on the streets of Kinshasa and elsewhere.
Kassuniin appealed to technical and financial partners to sustain and strengthen their support for establishing social protection programs, access to geriatric care, and solidarity income for the elderly. This support is crucial for enhancing the well-being and rights of elderly citizens in the DRC.
On the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons, INSPIR-RDC paid tribute to elderly citizens, describing them as living libraries of the nation, pillars of families, and custodians of values. Kassuniin emphasized the importance of protecting elderly individuals, stating that it is a matter of safeguarding the nation's future and humanity.
INSPIR-RDC's advocacy for the rights of elderly citizens in the DRC underscores the need for legal and social protection mechanisms. The organization's efforts aim to bring attention to the plight of elderly persons and push for legislative action to ensure their rights are protected and respected.
Key points
- INSPIR-RDC urges the Congolese Parliament to pass a law protecting elderly rights.
- The DRC lacks a specific law promoting and protecting the rights of elderly citizens.
- INSPIR-RDC commits to fighting abuse and neglect of elderly persons across the DRC.
