DO OLDER WOMEN HAVE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL RIGHTS?

Sally Dunbar, Graduate Women New Zealand, attended this event

This virtual parallel event at CSW69/Beijing+30 examined the economic and social status of older women since the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. While the Beijing Platform advanced women’s rights, older women remain overlooked in gender equality discussions. The session explored progress over three decades, barriers to economic security and social inclusion, and strategies to enhance protections for older women. Discussions focused on policies addressing poverty reduction, financial independence, access to services, and recognition of older women’s contributions in both paid and unpaid roles. The panel discussion covered three key perspectives: – Yesterday – Reviewing commitments made during the 1995 Beijing Conference – Today – Examining older women’s current financial realities and contributions – Tomorrow – Exploring efforts to strengthen economic security and social protections Speakers included Judy Lear on older women’s role in the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action, Tanvi Patel on their current economic and social status, and Mabel Bianco on the future of older women in relation to the 2030 Agenda and SDGs, with Ramsey Alwin moderating. Despite progress, older women remain disproportionately affected by financial insecurity, age discrimination, and exclusion from economic opportunities. Many lack stable housing, struggle with financial independence, and are expected to rely on family. Forty-four percent of women over 65 do not have sufficient pension income. Many continue working in informal jobs beyond retirement age without government protections. On average, older women spend 3.5 hours daily on unpaid caregiving, limiting pension eligibility. Older women also face systemic age discrimination, restricting access to employment, financial services, and policymaking roles. Though seven major UN documents address women’s rights, older women are explicitly mentioned in only three. Governments and organisations must strengthen social protection systems, expand pension coverage, improve healthcare access, and provide microfinance options. Recognising unpaid caregiving as formal labour with financial benefits is essential. Addressing age discrimination, increasing financial inclusion, and ensuring representation in global policies will help older women age with dignity, security, and confidence.

Aging should not mean invisibility or economic hardship.

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