Highlights

Take a closer look at some of the events and stories taking place across the world to celebrate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

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International Day of Older Persons

1 October 2018

This year’s International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) on 1 October will celebrate the older people around the world who dedicate their lives to championing human rights. 2018 also marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

Older human rights champions today were born around the time of the adoption of the UDHR in 1948. They are as diverse as the society in which they live: from older people advocating for human rights at the grass root and community level to high profile figures on the international stage. Each and every one demands equal respect and acknowledgement for their dedication and commitment to contributing to a world free from fear and free from want.

The celebration of older human rights champions on IDOP2018 provides an ideal opportunity to raise the visibility of older people as active members of society committed to improving the enjoyment of human rights in many areas of life and not just those that affect them immediately.

IDOP will be celebrated all around the world.

For example, AGE Platform Europe -the European network of non-profit organisations of and for people aged 50+ supported by the EU Rights, Equality and Citizenship programme and a partner of the Stand Up campaign - is organizing a campaign against ageism from 1 October to 10 December 2018, International Human Rights Day.

On 1 October in Geneva, UNECE, UNFPA, WHO, the NGO Committee on Ageing and OHCHR are organizing a joint event.

And you, how do you stand up for the rights of older of persons? Let us know by using the hashtags #IDOP2018 and #StandUp4HumanRights.


  • I will respect your rights regardless of who you are. I will uphold your rights even when I disagree with you
  • When anyone’s human rights are denied, everyone's rights are undermined, so I will stand up
  • I will raise my voice. I will take action. I will use my rights to stand up for your rights.

people have stood up for human rights

We can all be Human Rights Champions

Tweet, Instagram or YouTube your action using the hashtag #Standup4humanrights.

Spread the word

#Standup4humanrights