The Director of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission Ashwin Raj says older persons in our society are equal in dignity and rights and deserve to live a life free of abuse.
As today marks the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Raj says lock-downs, physical distancing, and limitations to our rights and freedoms during these extra-ordinary times should not be used as an excuse to neglect and ill-treat older persons in our communities.
He says older persons are more vulnerable and at a greater risk of facing violence, neglect, socio-economic challenges, discrimination, inhumane treatment, and isolation more than ever in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He says they must have access to health services, water, sanitation facilities, and humanitarian support.
Raj reiterates that the elderly must be treated fairly regardless of their age and other prohibited grounds of discrimination prescribed under the Fijian Constitution.
The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission Director adds that older persons must be protected against verbal, mental, psychological, physical, and sexual abuse.
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