Saudi Arabia Commended for Efforts to Improve Human Rights for Older Adults
United Nations independent expert Claudia Mahler acknowledged Saudi Arabia's advancements in elderly care during her visit to the Kingdom. Mahler noted the availability of comprehensive care services, including home-based and virtual healthcare, digital civil registry, and advanced medical care within prisons. The Kingdom's support for a Human Rights Council resolution on the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons demonstrates its ongoing commitment to the field.
Key Takeaways:
- Saudi Arabia has made significant improvements in the care of older adults, with Claudia Mahler observing offerings rarely found elsewhere, including home-based and virtual healthcare, digital civil registry services, and advanced medical care even within prisons.
- The Kingdom is among the sponsors of Human Rights Council Resolution (58/13), which aims to establish a legally binding instrument on the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons.
- Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of older persons, expressing appreciation for Mahler's efforts and calling for international cooperation to exchange experiences and best practices.
- Mahler's briefing to the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council highlights Saudi Arabia's efforts to prioritize the rights of older adults, including access to healthcare and digital services.
- The visit by Mahler and the resulting acknowledgement by the Saudi government demonstrate a commitment to addressing the human rights of older persons in the Kingdom.
- Saudi Arabia's support for international cooperation and multilateral dialogue aims to safeguard the dignity and rights of the elderly.
Statistics:
- 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council
- 18 September 2025 (date of the briefing by Claudia Mahler)
Sources:
- Saudi Press Agency
- United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC60)