Relation towards elderly and creating opportunities for achieving the full spectrum of all their rights are crucial not only for the equality of our oldest citizens, but also for the whole society and future generations, said Commissioner for Protection of Equality Brankica Jankovic at the meeting related to  implementation of regulations and recommendations about rights and prevention of discrimination of older persons, which was held within the manifestation “Social Protection Days” in Apatin.

Results of numerous surveys about the position of elderly, which were conducted in the previous years by Commissioner for Protection of Equality, as well as the practice of this institution, indicate that the great number of older persons are in risk of exclusion and discrimination, due to various social and economic barriers, limited access of public space and services in the community and also because of prejudices and stereotypes imbedded, stressed Jankovic. In this regard, Commissioner sent a recommendation of measures to the Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veteran and Social Issues, as well as to the Ministry of Health, in order to improve social and health services which are of outmost importance for the elderly and the quality of their life.

Beside Commissioner Jankovic, other speakers at the meeting were also Nadezda Sataric from the Association “Strength of Friendship – Amity” and representatives of New Social Protection Employees Trade Union and Chamber of Social Protection. The goal of the manifestation “Social Protection Days” is to educate expert public and the employees of centers for social work and social protection institutions with the implementation of international and national regulations from the area of achieving of older persons rights and prevention of their abuse, neglect and discrimination.