Beirut, 30 January 2025-- The Lebanese Ministry of Social Affairs, with support from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has developed the Action Plan for the National Strategy for Older Persons in Lebanon (2020-2030), as a preamble to achieve Lebanon's vision of becoming an inclusive society for all ages.
The plan was launched today by Minister of Social Affairs in Lebanon Hector Hajjar, UNFPA Lebanon Representative Anandita Philipose and Population Affairs Officer at ESCWA Sara Salman.
Hajjar highlighted the importance of the action plan at this difficult time Lebanon is undergoing. "It outlines a practical roadmap that involves everybody, and a first step in a sustainable work process to support the elderly within their families and communities and as contributing partners in development," he stressed.
The plan is considered a top priority at this critical juncture for Lebanon, as the compounded negative impacts of consecutive crises continue to affect citizens, particularly older persons, across psychological, health, social, and economic dimensions.
"Lebanon is experiencing one of the fastest demographic shifts towards ageing in the Arab region, necessitating intensified efforts by government institutions, international organizations, NGOs, the private sector, and all stakeholders to ensure the implementation of the plan developed with the support of ESCWA and the achievement of the national strategy's vision for older persons." Salman underscored.
The plan focuses on six pillars: enhancing the physical and mental health of older persons; ensuring their economic and social security; fostering their active engagement in society; supporting families and strengthening intergenerational solidarity; creating a safe, inclusive, and age-friendly environment; and preventing violence while safeguarding older persons at risk of abuse or affected by conflict.
"This first-ever national action plan in Lebanon is a landmark achievement that prioritizes the well-being of older people and their vital role in society. It is a milestone underscoring UNFPA's and the government's commitment in advancing integrated policies that aim to ensure dignified and secure ageing for all citizens, using a life cycle approach," Philipose emphasized.
The plan adopts a multisectoral approach, incorporating programmes to protect and empower older persons. It defines the responsibilities of ministries, public institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders while establishing a framework for monitoring and assessing interventions.
It also adopts a rights-based approach emphasizing respect for the life cycle, positive perceptions of ageing, and participatory methodologies, and aligns with Lebanon's international commitments.
