The University of Fiji has called for stronger legal and policy protections for older persons, stressing that longer lives must also mean lives lived with dignity, equality, autonomy and security.
The call comes as the world marks the United Nations International Day of Older Persons on 1 October 2026, under the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.”
The University of Fiji Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem, said the ageing global population presents significant human rights challenges that require governments and institutions to rethink how older persons are treated and protected.
“As the world grows older, our laws, institutions and policies must keep pace. Older persons are not simply recipients of care or assistance, they are active rights-holders entitled to dignity, autonomy, equality and a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect their lives,” Professor Shameem said.
She said the recognition of older persons’ rights must extend beyond social assistance to include meaningful participation in society and protection under national laws.
In a significant student-led initiative, the University’s Constitutional Law 205 students have drafted a proposed new Constitution for Fiji, titled the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji 2026, which includes provisions promoting and protecting the rights of older persons.
The initiative reflects the importance of recognizing older persons as rights-holders and ensuring that their dignity, equality and protection are embedded within Fiji’s constitutional framework.
While Fiji continues to strengthen its National Ageing Policy, social pensions, free medical schemes and bus fare subsidies, Professor Shameem highlighted the need for further measures to address the challenges facing older persons.
She noted that climate change has compounded these challenges, particularly in the Pacific, where food security, access to clean water, healthcare, economic opportunities and adequate housing remain critical concerns.
Older persons are also increasingly vulnerable to neglect, rising living costs, inadequate pensions and the breakdown of traditional family support structures.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, in his message for the International Day of Older Persons 2026, highlighted that the global population aged 60 and over is projected to increase from 1.2 billion to 2.1 billion by 2050, accounting for approximately 20 per cent of the world’s population.
He emphasized that while increased longevity represents a major achievement in improved healthcare and social protection, it also requires governments to rethink policies relating to employment, pensions, housing, healthcare and lifelong learning.
Professor Shameem said older persons must continue to be recognized for their contributions as leaders, caregivers and valued members of families and communities.
She also encouraged younger generations to demonstrate greater respect and appreciation for older persons.
“Our students are urged to respect and give dignity to older persons at home and around the communities they live in,” Professor Shameem said.
The University of Fiji joins the international community in recognizing the contributions of older persons and advocating for stronger protections to ensure that ageing is accompanied by dignity, security and meaningful participation in society.
