Pio Smith -

There is a saying that getting older isn’t losing one’s youth; it’s just a new phase of life full of chances and strength. This positive outlook is what the world needs most as we marked the International Day of Older Persons last Oct. 1. We need to reimagine how we can empower older people to ensure they age with dignity and live fulfilling lives. True, the world is undergoing a profound demographic transformation.

Humanitarians put their lives on the line to uphold fundamental rights, like sexual and reproductive health, ensuring that every individual receives the information and services they need to maintain their health and well-being. Last Aug. 19, we honored their courage and commitment to protecting human rights in the most extreme situations. Protecting the fundamental rights to health and bodily autonomy remains crucial when disasters hit.