HRC63 - EU Statement - Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

63^rd session

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

 

9 September 2026

EU statement 

Mr President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union. We congratulate the Independent Expert for his appointment and thank him for his report.

Older persons are the most heterogeneous of all age groups: while many live autonomously and independently, others require assistance or depend on care.

The report concludes that cognitive impairment does not diminish personhood, human agency or entitlement to human rights, but changes how they are exercised and requires of States to enable their continued enjoyment. This rights based approach is consistent with the EU's commitments under the CRPD and with relevant EU policies.

The European Pillar of Social Rights affirms the right to affordable long-term care of good quality. The European Care Strategy and the Council Recommendation on long-term care gives it concrete effect, while the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021 to 2030 guides efforts towards independent living and community based support. The European Commission also addresses the mental health and cognitive impairment of older persons through a comprehensive, life-course mental health initiative. Many EU member states have adopted legislation to ensure human-rights based approaches for older persons with cognitive impairment and to implement policies that give effect to the person’s will and preferences across relevant policy fields.

Mr Independent Expert, 

The European Union values the contribution of your mandate to the rights of older persons and we look forward to continued close cooperation.

How can States better support older persons with cognitive impairment in exercising their autonomy and legal capacity?

Thank you.