MUSCAT: As part of ongoing efforts to protect and promote human rights in Oman, the Oman Human Rights Commission (OHRC) is organising a celebration on the occasion of International Human Rights Day under the theme 'The Nation’s Pillar: Sustainable Steps to Protect and Promote the Rights of the Elderly'.
The celebration on December 10, Tuesday, will be held under the auspices of Shaikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council, with the attendance of representatives from government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations and media outlets.
This year’s celebration focuses on the elderly, in recognition of their pivotal role in nation-building and their active contribution to various aspects of life. Oman places great emphasis on providing comprehensive care for this group and ensuring their fundamental rights through legislation and laws that enhance their status and protect them from abuse or neglect. The event reaffirms OHRC's commitment to raising awareness of the rights of the elderly and highlighting efforts to safeguard their rights.
The programme includes activities such as a documentary film produced by OHRC which sheds light on the elderly and illustrates their role as a cornerstone of national development. The event also features a theatrical performance portraying the challenges faced by the elderly, aimed at raising community awareness about embracing the elderly and addressing the difficulties they encounter.
This will be followed by a presentation on key reports and complaints related to the rights of the elderly, showcasing how OHRC has dealt with them, along with national statistics that highlight the status of this group in Oman.
In recognition of national efforts, the event will announce notable initiatives and projects undertaken by government institutions and civil society organisations that have made significant contributions to protecting and promoting the rights of the elderly. This announcement aims to encourage institutions and individuals to adopt sustainable initiatives that support the rights of this group and enhance their participation in society.
The event will also review recommendations from the dialogue session held by the Commission on December 2, 2024, with the participation of representatives from state administrative units, the private sector and civil society organisations. These recommendations aim to strengthen collaboration between various entities to ensure the rights of the elderly and develop the services provided to them in line with international best practices.
On the sidelines of the celebration, an accompanying exhibition will be held, showcasing publications and materials from institutions concerned with elderly care. The exhibition will also include the participation of entities providing medical services, assistive devices, and therapeutic and developmental solutions to meet the needs of the elderly.
An art exhibition featuring paintings and photographs of the elderly will be organised in cooperation with the Omani Society for Fine Arts.
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