Human Rights Commissioner Song Doohwan, "COVID-19 Deepens Vulnerability of Elderly Human Rights... Special Attention Needed"

Statement Released Ahead of 'Senior Citizens Day' on the 2nd of This Month

Song Doo-hwan, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Song Doo-hwan, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, emphasized the protection of the basic human rights of the elderly and the guarantee of a dignified daily life ahead of 'Elderly Day' on the 2nd.

In a statement on the 1st, Chairperson Song said, "On the occasion of Elderly Day during the COVID-19 crisis era, I hope our society will take a more special interest in protecting the basic human rights of the elderly and ensuring they enjoy a dignified daily life."

Chairperson Song pointed out that despite the rapid aging of the population in our country, the poverty rate and suicide rate among the elderly are significantly higher compared to OECD member countries. He expressed concern that the vulnerability of elderly human rights is further deepened due to care gaps and high fatality rates amid the COVID-19 crisis.

Chairperson Song stated, "It is necessary to shift the perspective from viewing the elderly as 'policy targets' to recognizing them as 'rights holders' through the lens and sensitivity of human rights, which guarantee human dignity and basic human rights."

He added, "The Human Rights Commission will do its best to continuously pay attention to elderly human rights issues and propose various policy alternatives so that our society can take a step further in protecting the basic human rights of the elderly."

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