WASHINGTON, DC – THE Federation has reaffirmed its commitment to honouring, protecting, and supporting its elderly population, as the Organization of American States (OAS) marked the International Day of Older Persons.
Speaking at a sitting of the OAS Permanent Council here in Washington, DC, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Minister Counselor and Alternate Representative, Augustine Skerritt, outlined the steps the Federation is taking to support its ageing population.
Skerritt emphasized that while the day draws attention to the challenges older individuals face, it also serves as an important reminder of their enduring contributions.
In the Federation, approximately 10 percent of the population is currently over the age of 60, and that number is projected to rise sharply.
“It is a defining characteristic of our future," he stated. "It means we must be proactive in ensuring that our societal structures—healthcare, social security, infrastructure—are age-friendly and resilient. We know that the experience, wisdom, and cultural legacy held by our elders are essential anchors to our twin-island Federation, and we owe them a debt of gratitude and an unwavering commitment to their well-being.”
He further highlighted the Federation’s alignment with international practices, particularly through its participation in key regional conventions.
“In line with the spirit of the International Day and the principles enshrined in the Inter-American Convention on protecting the human rights of older persons, St. Kitts and Nevis has prioritised measures that foster active and healthy ageing. To this end, our Foreign Minister, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzel Douglas, signed the instruments of accession to this convention on April 22 of this year, 2025. This year is supported by action in various sectors comprising a multifaceted approach.”
“In line with the spirit of the International Day and the principles enshrined in the Inter-American Convention on Protecting the Human Rights of Older Persons, St. Kitts and Nevis has prioritised measures that foster active and healthy ageing,” he said. “To this end, our Foreign Minister, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, signed the instruments of accession to this convention on April 22, 2025. This commitment is supported by action across various sectors, comprising a multifaceted approach.”
On healthcare, Skerritt reported that the Federation is strengthening primary care services to manage non-communicable diseases, which disproportionately affect the elderly.
"To ensure access to free and otherwise affordable comprehensive care, including mental support, that allows them to live their lives in full health to the end. In terms of social inclusion and protection, we are working to strengthen our societal safety nets, including pensions and assistance programmes that we have recently passed legislation to ensure."
He continued, “This legislation ensures that non-establishment workers, for instance, are now pensionable. Regarding physical and digital accessibility, our national development plans increasingly focus on creating age-friendly environments—from accessibility to public spaces to digital inclusion programmes that bridge the technological gap between our seniors and connect them to the world and essential services. These issues will continue to be addressed and improved by our new ageing and disability policy, which was recently drafted and is now being reviewed by stakeholders.”
Skerritt reinforced the moral imperative of protecting the rights of older citizens, emphasizing that “the strength of the Americas is measured by how we treat our most vulnerable, and our older people deserve nothing less than our utmost respect, care, and the full realisation of their rights".
