World Elder Abuse Awareness Day — June 15, 2026
Geneva Institute for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs Calls for Renewed Global Commitment to Protect Older Persons
Geneva, June 15, 2026 — On the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), the Geneva Institute for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs (GIHR) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the protection of the rights, dignity, and well-being of older persons worldwide.
Established by the United Nations in 2006, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed annually on June 15 to raise awareness about the abuse and suffering inflicted on some of the world’s most vulnerable people — the elderly.

The Scale of the Problem
Elder abuse is a serious and growing global challenge. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 6 people aged 60 years and older experienced some form of abuse in community settings in the past year. In institutional settings such as nursing homes and long-term care facilities, the rates are even higher.
Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect. It crosses all social, economic, and cultural boundaries and is often perpetrated by those in positions of trust, including family members and caregivers.

GIHR’s Commitment
The Geneva Institute for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs stands in solidarity with older persons and their advocates on this important day. GIHR calls upon governments, civil society organizations, and communities to take concrete action to prevent elder abuse, strengthen legal protections, and create safe environments where older persons can live with dignity and respect.
We must break the culture of silence that allows elder abuse to persist. Every older person has the right to live free from fear, violence, and exploitation.

What You Can Do
Speak up if you witness or suspect elder abuse
Support organizations working to protect older persons
Advocate for stronger laws and policies at the national and international levels
Educate your community about the signs of elder abuse
Together, we can build a world where older persons are valued, protected, and respected.
Stand with us. Protect our elders.