Strengthening the human rights of older people in New Zealand

The Government have released a report responding to recommendations from the United Nations Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons, strengthening its commitment to improve outcomes for older New Zealanders.

The then Independent Expert, Ms Rosa Kornfeld-Matte, conducted an official country visit to New Zealand from 2 to 12 March 2020, at the invitation of the Government.

The visit was coordinated by the Office for Seniors, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the New Zealand Human Rights Commission and the Special Procedures Branch of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

On her visit, Ms Kornfeld-Matte met with the Ministers for Seniors and Minister of Social Development and Employment and relevant independent Crown entity representatives, including the Chief Human Rights Commissioner. She also met with representatives from numerous government departments, regional and local government authorities, representatives from civil society organisations, academics, private companies and social workers and volunteers working with older people. She also visited some aged residential care facilities and related institutions.

The statement available on the United Nations website is a whole of Government response and provides an update on the human rights of older persons in New Zealand.

You can read a copy of the response here.