Belize Becomes First English-Speaking Caribbean Nation to Adopt Human Rights Convention for Older Persons

The Government of Belize officially acceded to the Inter-American Convention on the Protection of Human Rights of Older Persons on Monday. The significant step aims to increase the protection of senior citizens’ rights and underscores Belize’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity and fundamental rights of its elderly population. The Convention, adopted by the Organization of American States (OAS) in 2015, seeks to guarantee that individuals aged 60 and older enjoy full human rights and freedoms. It covers a wide array of protections, including the right to equality, independence, community participation, access to healthcare, social security, and political participation, ensuring that older persons live with dignity and are integrated into society in all aspects of life. Belize’s decision to accede to the Convention makes it the first English-speaking Caribbean territory to officially adopt this crucial human rights instrument. The National Council on Ageing and the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous People’s Affairs has welcomed the milestone, emphasizing the importance of the Convention in promoting the rights and inclusion of older persons in Belize.