The newly appointed Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons at the UN Human Rights Council brings a strong track record and proven commitment to the rights of older people that should strengthen this body of work at the UN, HelpAge International said as it welcomed the news of her appointment.
“Claudia has been instrumental in her role at the German Institute of Human Rights in bringing the rights of older people to the attention of governments and national human rights institutions around the world. She has always collaborated closely with civil society and we look forward to working with her in her new role,” said Justin Derbyshire, CEO of HelpAge International.
Claudia Mahler, who is due to take up the position in May 2020, told HelpAge International, “I am very happy about my appointment and look forward to the challenges. I rely on working with older people because they are experts on their own behalf. I will work to ensure that the rights of older persons are strengthened and that the voices of older people are increasingly recognized in all settings around the globe!”
Claudia succeeds Rosa Kornfeld-Matte, who was the first Independent Expert on older people’s rights and held the position for six years.
“Rosa has done a great service to older people during her time as Independent Expert, highlighting critical issues such as the implications of new technologies on older people’s rights and the need for a UN convention on the rights of older people” said Justin Derbyshire. “We thank Rosa for all her work in establishing this important role with the UN human rights system.”
Independent human rights experts report and advise on human rights in all parts of the world from a thematic or country-specific perspective. They work on a voluntary basis, are independent from any government or organization and serve in their individual capacity.