I Introduction
II Major areas of concern relating to ageing and older
persons
III
Action on major areas of concern
Social position of older persons
Older persons and the family
Health and nutrition
Housing, transportation and the built environment
Older persons and the market
Income security, maintenance and employment
Social services and the community
IV
Implementation: structures and processes
National infrastructure for ageing and older
persons
Planning and targeting
Intersectoral collaboration and support
Coordination and monitoring
Resource mobilization and allocation
Regional and international cooperation
I.
Introduction
1. The Plan of Action
on Ageing for Asia and the Pacific addresses important issues relating
to ageing and older persons by identifying specific courses of action to
be taken by countries of the region, individually and collectively.
It contains concise recommendations with specific guidelines. Individual
countries will set their own goals and targets within the framework of
the recommendations and implement them in accordance with their national
circumstances.
2. The present Plan
of Action draws on the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, adopted
at the World Assembly on Ageing in 1982, the Proclamation on Ageing as
annexed to General Assembly resolution 47/5 of 16 October 1992, the United
Nations Principles for Older Persons and other relevant United Nations
mandates relating to ageing and older persons. It is also supportive
of the relevant goals and targets contained in the Programme of Action
adopted at the International Conference on Population and Development,
held in Cairo in 1994, the Copenhagen Programme of Action adopted at the
World Summit for Social Development in 1995 and of the Agenda for Action
on Social Development in the ESCAP Region as revised by the Fifth Asian
and Pacific Ministerial Conference on Social Development in 1997.
3. In formulating the
present Plan of Action, the governments recognize that, for many developing
countries in the region, the overall social and economic development of
the nation, including the provision of basic social services for all the
population, remains the priority national task. Hunger, poverty,
ill health, social exclusion, unemployment, and limited access to education
and basic amenities are critical national areas of concern requiring corrective
action and competing for scarce resources. The governments appreciate
the need to view the issues relating to ageing and older persons within
this broader developmental context of priorities, needs and resource allocation.
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II.
Major areas of concern relating to ageing and older persons
4. The governments
recognize that the twentieth century has heralded, in the Asian and Pacific
region, the beginning of a demographic transformation that will have a
profound impact on the countries in the region. At its core, the
transformation dramatically alters the age structure of all societies,
disproportionately increasing the number and percentage of older persons.
The twin processes of mortality and fertility reduction contribute to this
dramatic increase in the proportion of older persons which, in some countries,
is expected to rise to as high as 25 per cent by the early twenty-first
century. The combined effects of improved longevity and declining
fertility lead to a maturing of the age structure, with a high concentration
of the population in the middle or older ages. The increase in the presence
of older persons will be felt in all aspects of social life.
5. The rise in the
population of older persons, in absolute and relative terms, poses challenges
in both developmental and humanitarian areas. At the societal, developmental
level, the effects of structural changes in the age composition of the
population on the social, economic and political life of a society will
be profound. The sheer size of the older population will impact on
existing societal arrangements, such as age at retirement and relative
political influence. The differential size of the younger and older
populations will further lead to a shift in the economic dynamics of production,
consumption, savings and investment. The aggregate effects of these
changes are multifaceted and are just beginning to be appreciated.
Research on the development implications at country and regional levels
is intensifying and will guide future policy responses.
6. At the community
and individual levels, the humanitarian needs of older persons require
special attention. Societies have to promote and safeguard the rights
and well-being of older persons. This includes the prevention of age discrimination
and the promotion of productive ageing. The aspirations, knowledge
and energy of older persons need to be effectively channelled in the process
of national economic and social development. The service infrastructure
needs to be broadened and strengthened to meet the social, emotional, health,
financial and developmental needs of this growing population.
7. This demographic
phenomenon is occurring within a context of changes in national institutions
and values because of rapid social and economic development. The
traditional institutions for the care of older persons, such as the family
and the community, are undergoing transformation in response to these changes.
Traditional support may no longer be adequate or may have diminished.
The support systems for older persons need to be re-examined with a view
to improving their scope and effectiveness.
8. The present Plan
of Action addresses seven areas of concern relating to ageing and older
persons in the Asian and Pacific region: (a) the social position of older
persons; (b) older persons and the family; (c) health and nutrition; (d)
housing, transportation and the built environment; (e) older persons and
the market; (f) income security, maintenance and employment; and (g) social
services and the community.
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III.
Action on major areas of concern
9. Noting that the
demographic transformation will manifest its full impact in the decades
to come, the governments recognize that population ageing is imminent.
It is an important phenomenon with long-term concerns, posing no immediate
difficulties but increasing pressure on the socio-economic development
of the nation. For most countries, the structural changes in the
age composition of the population have thus far been slow and the number
of older persons manageable. However, in many areas, immediate action
must be taken.
10. The immediate tasks
for the Asian and Pacific region focus on four major areas: the understanding
of the issues and implications of population ageing on society; the preparation
of the population for an ageing process that is productive and fulfilling;
the development of a service infrastructure and environment based on traditional
and modern institutions that will be able to meet present and future needs;
and the delivery of essential services needed by the growing number of
older persons.
11. There is a continuum
among the countries in the Asian and Pacific region in respect of the level
of governmental interest in issues relating to ageing and older persons,
and the extensiveness of the policies and programmes initiated for older
persons. Underlying these differences, however, is a universal awareness
that the issues and challenges are similar across countries and much can
be learnt from the experiences of each other. These issues and challenges
emanate from the demographic and social realities that are faced by all
countries in the region.
A.
Social position of older persons
12. The conventional
perception of older persons tends to be negative. Older persons are
often depicted as frail, disabled and dependent. Economically and
socially, they are perceived to be at risk of being marginalized as countries
go through rapid economic and technological development. The reality,
as documented in research findings, is very different. The older
persons in the region engage in a variety of activities that have a significant
bearing on the cultural, social and economic life of a country. They
have a significant presence in both formal and informal sectors.
Most of them are healthy and independent. In an era of rapid globalization
and technological change, the older person is a cultural icon providing
continuity and stability in the country's traditions. The contributions
of older persons have proved to be valuable resources for the country's
social and economic development.
13. Ageing is an extension
of life that has been made possible by technological advances, especially
those in medical and health services. As life expectancy continues
to rise and more people are living to older ages, the role of older persons
assumes special significance. The preparation for a productive and
meaningful role at older ages should be undertaken at both the individual
and the society level. At the individual level, the extension of
life must be associated with personal satisfaction and fulfilment achieved
through involvement in family, community and workplace activities.
This involvement is a lifelong process that starts from an early age, a
process that should be nurtured in preparing younger people for life at
older ages. At the society level, preparation for productive ageing
should include steps such as lifelong education and provision of equal
opportunity, to allow older persons to remain engaged in as many social,
economic and community activities as possible.
14. The governments
recognize that, in preparation for an ageing society, serious efforts should
be made to dispel the negative perception of older persons. A new,
positive role for older persons will be vigorously inculcated, a role based
on the positive contributions of older persons in the family and in society.
In this regard, the governments will give due publicity to the United Nations
Principles for Older Persons within the national and cultural context.
The governments will harness the contributions of older persons as a national
resource and ensure that future generations benefit from a programme of
lifelong preparation for productive ageing.
B.
Older persons and the family
15. The family has
a distinctive place in the countries of the Asian and Pacific region.
It is the most basic social unit, with much of the country's social and
economic life revolving around it. In many rural communities, it
is also the economic unit engaging in productive activities. Binding
the families together are deeply rooted cultural mores and religious practices.
Filial piety, which underpins the relationship between generations, is
a key attribute that reinforces the family's cohesiveness. The older
person is guaranteed a special position in the family, giving and receiving
support from other family members.
16. The region has
a high regard for the unique role that the family plays in supporting older
persons. Most countries place special emphasis on the family as the
frontline institution in their plans for population ageing. They
realize that the emotional, social, physical and economic supports provided
by the family are indispensable and cannot be replaced by any other institutions.
It is also recognized that the family institution remains strong in spite
of cultural changes and migratory movements. In many countries, it
is an accepted planning norm that the family will continue to play this
critical support role in the century to come.
17. The governments
appreciate the forces that have adversely affected the capacity of the
family to support and care for older persons. Declining family size,
the increasing number of women joining the workforce, the diminishing extended
family arrangement and the geographic mobility of family members are contributing
factors. They reduce the number of potential caregivers within the
family and the options of burden-sharing. Given these changes, it
becomes necessary for governments to take effective steps to enhance the
care-giving capability of the family through appropriate programmes.
This is a cost-effective approach and is compatible with the cultural mores
of the region.
18. Recognizing the
importance of the care-giving role of the family, governments agree to
initiate comprehensive programmes that will strengthen the family in this
aspect. The programmes should include the following elements:
(a) Promotion
of co-residence through housing policies and financial incentives;
(b) Provision
of home nursing services for the older persons;
(c) Provision
of facilities for respite care;
(d) Provision
of programmes on counselling, professional guidance and emotional support;
(e) Strengthening
of inter-generational relationships.
19. The governments
are aware of the existence of vulnerable older persons whose families are
no longer able to offer support or who have no family. These groups
of older persons, which include the destitute, the low-income, the minorities,
the displaced, the disabled and persons with long-term medical conditions,
require direct humanitarian assistance. These groups should receive
special attention and be adequately covered by the social safety net.
The governments will identify and assess the size of these groups and the
extent to which assistance is required. In this regard, the governments
recognize that widows constitute the largest group among older persons.
Their special needs will be monitored and met through special programmes.
Older persons, especially those without children, are among the most vulnerable
during natural disasters and emergencies. The governments will make
adequate provision for older persons in emergency planning and relief efforts.
20. The governments
will pay special tribute to the contributions of the older persons to the
family institution. The notion that older persons only receive support
and contributions from their family members should be dispelled.
The inter-generational exchange is two-way, with all members benefiting
from the process. The assistance rendered by older persons range
from intangibles such as helping with child care to providing financial
support for the family. These contributions, taken together, strengthen
the family unit and bind the generations over the life course.
C.
Health and nutrition
21. While older persons
are prone to age-related illnesses, the ageing process is not necessarily
associated with poor health. Cohorts of older persons are now reaching
the same age in better health than before. Research has shown that
maintenance of good health can be achieved through proper nutrition, early
diagnosis, preventive care and healthy lifestyles, including harmonious
family life, health and physical education and social participation.
The promotion and implementation of these low-cost, prevention-based initiatives
could significantly enhance the well-being of older persons.
22. Advances in medical
technologies in the past decades have made possible the prolongation of
life through better medical care and intensive interventions. These
new technologies are, however, expensive and are not easily accessible
to the average person. The majority of the population comes in contact
with primary and secondary health care facilities. Improvements in
these facilities would have a more significant impact on the quality of
life among the masses. For older persons, whose contacts with health
facilities are more frequent, economical and preventive services are essential.
23. The health needs
of the older persons are multidimensional. While physical health
is often the focus of attention, the psychological and mental health of
older persons is equally important in ensuring their sense of well-being.
A system of coordinated care will be put in place to evaluate the health
needs of older persons in a holistic manner and to implement appropriate
person-oriented interventions. Within this system, suitable programmes
will be instituted to detect the presence of psychological and mental problems
and provide suitable solutions.
24. The governments
agree with the need to put a systematic programme of activities in place
to educate the population on healthy ageing. The components of healthy
ageing include awareness of physiological changes, understanding of the
symptoms of common ailments and the risk factors of poor health, and the
adoption of a healthy lifestyle. Information about common ailments
such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cataract, arthritis, osteoporosis
and neuro-psychiatric diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's will
be disseminated, accompanied by early diagnosis and mass screening programmes.
Nutritional advice will be provided to minimize dietary deficiencies and
imbalances. The governments reaffirm that these low-cost, community-based
activities will be integrated into existing community health programmes.
25. The governments
recognize that the health care of older persons will be a key issue in
the future resulting in significant budgetary commitments. Regional
variations in health care financing do exist, reflecting country preferences.
However, more innovative options need to be evolved including co-payment
of medical costs between employees and employers, the setting up of medical
funds to cover medical expenses and the establishment of insurance-based
schemes to provide financing for major illnesses and hospitalization needs.
D.
Housing, transportation and the built environment
26. In the Asian and
Pacific region, older persons tend to live with the family. For them,
the family house is the centre of almost all activities. Their quality
of life is thus unavoidably affected by the adequacy of living conditions.
Ensuring a proper living environment has been a national concern for regional
countries. The governments have associated themselves with the Global
Strategy for Shelter to the Year 2000, which obliges the State to assume
responsibility for the protection and improvement of housing conditions.
Resources should be made available to address the housing needs of the
older persons.
27. To the extent possible,
the governments will ensure that older persons have a reasonable and adequate
living environment. Barrier-free access throughout the community
will be made possible through appropriate means. Incentives will
be given to facilitate home upgrading and improvements to the surrounding
environment. Public housing programmes will include options for older
persons who live alone either by choice or by circumstance. For older
persons who need community residential care, it is important that nursing
homes and shelters for the aged destitute are well run and deliver satisfactory
levels of care and service.
28. Special arrangements
will be made to meet the transportation needs of older persons. Concessions
in travel fares will be considered for older persons commuting by public
transport. Wherever feasible, adaptations will be made to the physical
environment and transportation infrastructure to facilitate the independent,
unrestricted mobility of older persons. The governments will promote
road safety as older persons are particularly at risk of traffic accidents.
E.
Older persons and the market
29. Older persons are
a special group of consumers, as many of them require specialized goods
and services in their daily living. The provision of such goods and
services is generally undertaken by the private sector. In some countries,
this has grown to become a well-defined market with older persons becoming
captive consumers. However, the range and the quality of goods and
services, as well as their prices, may vary, depending on the size of the
market and the number of firms. Older persons, particularly those
consumers with limited purchasing power or knowledge of the products, may
be susceptible to monopolistic pricing and unscrupulous or aggressive market
practices. Governments will ensure that their rights as consumers,
as provided for in the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection,
are recognized and safeguarded. Older persons should be encouraged
to join or form consumer groups to safeguard their interest.
30. The governments
recognize the potential of private sector initiatives in meeting the day-to-day
needs of older persons through pay-for-service transactions. These
initiatives are important market mechanisms responding to the needs and
demands of the consumers. As the number of older persons increases,
innovative private sector services are likely to emerge to cater to their
special needs. The rise of a service industry catering to older persons
is inevitable, and it has already happened in many countries in the region.
The governments will facilitate and regulate the development of this market
by providing appropriate incentives and guidance and by putting safeguards
in place to prevent abuse and ensure minimum standards.
F.
Income security, maintenance and employment
31. Income security
at older ages is affected by a number of factors. The ability to
accumulate wealth during the younger years determines the degree to which
an older person is financially vulnerable. A reasonable stock of
savings may see an older person through years with no income and ensure
an acceptable standard of living. The maintenance of a steady income
stream through gainful employment provides the best guarantee of financial
security. In countries where social security or pension benefits
are available, financial security is further assured by societal arrangements.
The family will, in many cases, provide the ultimate safeguard for an older
person?s financial well-being.
32. Saving for old
age is a tradition in the Asian and Pacific region. The practice
is widespread, hence the region's reputation of having the highest savings
rates in the world. In economies with a prominent formal sector,
a steady wage income allows many families to save for old age and for other
contingencies. In rural communities, and in the informal sector,
savings for old age may be a lesser concern when the day-to-day livelihood
is at constant risk. Nonetheless, saving for old age remains a valued
behaviour and is carried out whenever possible.
33. The governments
will assess the extent to which the different sectors of the population
are saving for old age. Savings during the economically active life
span of each person provide for the consumption needs in retirement years.
This is a key element in a person's lifelong preparation for old age.
Many countries already have a mechanism to encourage savings among the
population. This mechanism will be expanded with adequate incentives
to facilitate the saving habit. Appropriate mechanisms need to be
established in countries where no such schemes exist.
34. The governments
note that employment for older persons is critical for financial security
as it generates an income flow. Participation in the workforce will
be encouraged as long as older persons are able to continue to work.
They should not be forced out of their jobs by a rigid retirement age or
other discriminatory practices. A flexible retirement scheme and
legal protection will enable capable older persons to remain economically
active. Job creation and retention programmes should be established
to bring back older workers. Such programmes will also enhance the
employability of older workers through upgrading of knowledge and skills.
Self-employment among older persons will be encouraged through advisory
services and other assistance.
35. A variety of social
security or pension schemes exist in the region. These are designed
in line with national circumstances. In cases where only partial
coverage is provided, there is a need to extend the coverage, especially
to vulnerable groups such as the older destitute, widows, housewives and
the disabled. The governments will constantly review the adequacy
of the benefits to meet a reasonable standard of living. Where possible,
additional resources will be devoted to social security schemes to improve
the coverage and the current level of benefits. The governments realize
that the sustainability and viability of social security schemes are an
important policy issue, and urge that intensive studies be made to examine
the implications and to evolve new instruments of income security.
G.
Social services and the community
36. As a result of
the physiological, social and financial changes that older persons experience,
they may require assistance from time to time to regain a sense of well-being.
Events such as the demise of a spouse, retirement from work and onset of
age-related illnesses may put older persons through brief periods of distress.
External help or support may be needed by some to bring relief and expedite
adjustment. Such assistance may include temporary day-care rehabilitation,
counselling or dietary advice. These services, taken together, help
older persons to overcome their temporary difficulties and improve their
well-being. The focus on age-related difficulties sets these services
apart from traditional welfare programmes, though some overlap does exist.
37. There is much variability
among countries in the coverage and accessibility of social services for
older persons. The variability is dependent on the levels of financial
and manpower resources available for allocation to social services.
Within each country, variability also exists between urban and rural areas.
The urban areas tend to have a higher concentration of service centres,
leading to better coverage and accessibility.
38. The governments
recognize the occasional need for social service assistance by older persons.
Adequate resources will be committed to ensure that a reasonable level
of services is available to older persons in each member country.
Proper coordination of government and non-governmental service agencies
will be implemented to establish an adequate network of services that reach
out to older persons in both urban and rural areas.
39. With their experience,
knowledge and mature outlook, older persons form a potential pool of expertise
that can be tapped for community projects and activities. As residents
of the community, they are familiar with local circumstances and their
inputs could be a critical success factor. As key beneficiaries,
they also have much to gain from sharing pertinent information and skills
in community projects. There are ample opportunities available for
community participation of older persons and extension of help to each
other.
40. The governments
agree that older persons constitute a valuable resource in the community.
The governments will open up avenues for their participation through membership
in community clubs and resident associations. Associations of older
persons will be encouraged, and older persons will be empowered to undertake
projects that would improve community well-being.
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IV.
Implementation: structures and processes
41. The governments
recognize that the task of implementing the Plan of Action is a national
responsibility, requiring the combined efforts of the government, non-governmental
organizations and other social units. To this end, member countries
will establish appropriate structures and processes in accordance with
their differing national circumstances. These structures and processes
are components of a national service infrastructure which enhances, safeguards
and preserves the well-being of older persons and promotes their participation
in society.
A.
National infrastructure for ageing and older persons
42. Recognizing the
importance of organizing and instituting a national infrastructure that
will deal with issues relating to ageing and older persons in a holistic
and integrated manner, the governments commit themselves to building this
infrastructure as an integral part of the implementation of the Plan of
Action. They will seek to balance the needs of the old against the
demands of the young, and allocate adequate resources to meet the needs
of older persons while satisfying the requirements of all social groups,
with particular emphasis on women, the poor and people in rural areas.
43. A national infrastructure
for ageing should consist of three principal components: (a) governmental
institutions and non-governmental organizations; community-based organizations
and organizations of older persons; and resources, including personnel
concerned with ageing and older persons; (b) a service delivery network
with acceptable standards of service quality; and (c) an information, training
and research apparatus on ageing issues.
44. The governments
will examine the present arrangement of institutions and agencies dealing
with older persons and enhance their coordination as a total system.
There are many elements in this system, from government agencies such as
the pension office and old-age homes to non-governmental service centres.
A central coordinating agency should be established to ensure the adequacy
of the system to respond to the needs of older persons.
45. The governments,
in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, will assess the training
needs of personnel in the institutions and agencies and initiate plans
to upgrade the skills of personnel. Health personnel, community and
social workers and researchers need to keep abreast of the latest developments
in their specialized fields that impinge on the ageing. Formal learning,
informal on-the-job training and exchange of information and experiences
will be encouraged among the front-line personnel to strengthen their professional
capabilities and enhance their productivity.
46. Many countries
already have a system of service delivery to older persons and their families.
This includes medical, health, social and other related services.
The governments will enhance service quality, improve coverage and reduce
wastage. The governments will also promote the establishment of service
standards that are important yardsticks by which the well-being of older
persons can be judged. While the setting of standards may depend
on the resources available, evolution to higher standards over time is
important.
47. The governments
will encourage the establishment of an information and research apparatus
on ageing and issues relating to older persons. Many concerns of
older persons are new and linked to the changes in societies at large.
National planning and research efforts are essential to understand and
assess these concerns, their societal impact and policy options.
In support of the research activities and as inputs for planning and policy-making,
the governments will undertake to establish national databanks on older
persons. Where necessary, surveys on the ageing will be conducted
to provide benchmark information and measure changes over time. The
governments will support social policy analysis based on reliable empirical
databases.
B.
Planning and targeting
48. With a national
infrastructure for the ageing in place, plans and programmes can be drawn
up to meet the guidelines in the Plan of Action. The governments
will specify attainable goals and targets for the national plans and programmes
in terms of quantifiable outputs to be produced within well-defined time-frames.
Such targeting of national plans and programmes is essential for assessment
of the progress achieved. The governments will consider the planning
and targeting of programmes in conjunction with resource availability and
allocation. Inputs should be obtained from all participating sectors
so that the plans made and targets set are within reasonable and realizable
limits. While setting targets, the governments will give due consideration
to promoting gender equality and minimizing rural-urban imbalance.
C.
Intersectoral collaboration and support
49. In the multisectoral
approach to the present Plan of Action, the governments appreciate the
need to work in close cooperation and collaboration with non-governmental
organizations and the private sector. The wide-ranging nature of
the issues concerning older persons requires a holistic and systemic response
from society at all levels.
50. The governments
are aware of the critical role that non-governmental organizations play.
Many of these organizations are pioneers in organizing and delivering services
to older persons. In many member countries, they are the core institutions
in the national infrastructure for ageing. The governments will encourage
the development of a strong non-governmental sector and enhance the participation
of these organizations in planning and implementing policies and programmes
concerning older persons. Facilitation of the development of this
sector should include the formulation of a legal framework for the establishment
and registration of such organizations, and the provision of budgetary
subvention and assistance in other forms to them.
51. Open competition
by the private sector in service delivery can improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The governments will provide all opportunities for the private sector to
complement public programmes on health care, housing and other basic services
for older persons. Where the private sector can bring about better
standards in services, the governments should consider the privatization
of such services.
D.
Coordination and monitoring
52. The implementation
of the present Plan of Action must be well coordinated at the national
level. National coordination of all the sectors involved in the ageing
issues minimizes duplication and facilitates the optimal allocation of
resources. Piecemeal solutions to the issues may bring the desired
outcome in one area, but may lead to adverse consequences in another.
The solutions, like the issues themselves, are multifaceted. Their
implementation requires careful coordination by all sectors.
53. Recognizing the
need for sectoral coordination, the governments will designate a national
coordinating body to provide the overall policy direction and guidance
in planning and formulation of national programmes. The national
coordinating agency on ageing will be represented by all sectors, with
leadership being provided by the governments. It is essential to
monitor and review the implementation of the present Plan of Action on
a regular basis, at intervals to be determined by each country. There
will be consultation of the players involved at every stage of the implementation.
Such consultation during the monitoring and review process will provide
insightful feedback to the national coordinating agency on changes in local
conditions and the ensuing adjustments required to be made to the national
plans and programmes.
E.
Resource mobilization and allocation
54. The governments
recognize that a national infrastructure for ageing can only function with
adequate financial and manpower resources. Many countries in the
region are, however, faced with multiple priorities in their budgetary
provisions and manpower plans. The governments must show the commitment
to review such national priorities and, where necessary, revise them to
ensure the judicious mobilization and allocation of resources for the implementation
of the present Plan of Action.
55. Funding support
from the regular government budget is essential for a large number of programmes
and services for older persons. The governments will increase, where
possible, their financial contributions to the national infrastructure
for ageing and older persons. The governments will explore new ways
of financing, including the establishment of a dedicated fund to provide
additional resources for implementing the present Plan of Action.
56. As well as the
State, which provides direct financing, non-governmental organizations
are important agents in mobilizing financial resources from the community.
The governments will give them appropriate assistance in their fund-raising
activities and guidance for sound financial administration. In some
countries, matching or capital grants, tax exemptions and other fiscal
incentives are instruments used by the government to facilitate community
resource mobilization.
57. Volunteerism, which
exists in all societies, provides a ready source of financial and manpower
resources. The governments will encourage all expressions of volunteerism
in services to older persons, by giving appropriate training, guidance
and due recognition as far as possible. Many older persons themselves
are volunteers. The governments will accord high priority to help
older volunteers in organizing themselves and providing services for others.
F.
Regional and international cooperation
58. Regional and international
cooperation on issues related to ageing and older persons has made a significant
contribution towards the implementation of the mandates of the Vienna Plan
of Action and other global initiatives. Current modalities of cooperation
at the country, regional or international level include the exchange of
information, joint research and training activities, awareness creation
and demonstration projects. The governments call upon all regional
and international entities to strengthen their commitment to these current
modalities and to establish new avenues of cooperation.
59. As the regional
arm of the United Nations for Asia and the Pacific and the focal point
for the region on issues related to ageing and older persons, the Economic
and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific should continue to carry
out its unique role in facilitating the exchange of national experiences,
carrying out joint training, research and planning activities and providing
technical assistance and information and advisory services to its members
and associate members. The governments call on the Commission, in
collaboration with concerned United Nations bodies and specialized agencies,
to design programmes for regional cooperation in support of the present
Plan of Action. The Commission should continue to give support to
countries in establishing regional cooperation mechanisms, resource mobilization
from multilateral donor institutions, coordination with international organizations
in activities on ageing, and monitoring and evaluation of the implementation
of the Plan of Action. The capabilities of the Commission to undertake
the above and serve as the regional focal point for United Nations agencies
on all activities and programmes on ageing and related issues should be
strengthened.
60. The governments
call upon the United Nations system to increase its support of the infrastructure
for ageing and older persons at the country level. Such support will
include the provision of technical assistance in policy and programme development,
financial support for major initiatives and a mechanism for capacity-building.
Specific measures can take the form of dissemination of relevant information
and technical materials, the conducting of seminars, workshops and training
courses on ageing and related social issues, advisory services on programme
planning and evaluation, assessment of training needs and priorities, and
the design of training materials.
61. The governments
welcome the initiatives of international non-governmental organizations
and their regional and in-country representatives. The positive outcomes
of their activities for older persons should be placed on record and given
due recognition. The governments encourage all international non-governmental
organizations to intensify their efforts in the interests of the older
persons of the world. An important area of contribution from these
organizations will be the provision of technical assistance to enhance
the national information, training and research capabilities of countries
in the region.
62. Given the
differing conditions in the population and development status of various
subregions of the Asian and Pacific region, the governments agree that
the present Plan of Action could be viewed at subregional levels.
The governments urge the Commission and concerned international organizations
to provide subregional organizations with appropriate technical assistance
and other support in defining and implementing programmes in accordance
with the Plan of Action.
63. The governments
call upon the secretariat of the Commission to review progress in the implementation
of the Plan of Action and report its findings and recommendations for further
action by all concerned to the Commission at its annual session in 2001
and every five years thereafter.
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