On 2 February, Senator Nènel Cassis, Commission of Agriculture Haiti, introduced a bill on “Social Security for Haitian Agricultural Communities" in the Senate. The bill will establish an organisation called INASOP (National Institute for Social Security in Rural Areas) which to identify those working in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and related sectors in order to offer free healthcare to everyone identified. Identified older people and other vulnerable groups will also be offered a pension.

We are reporting from the World Economic Forum this week where HelpAge CEO, Richard Blewitt, will be addressing the issue of global ageing and rights of older people at two sessions. With a rapidly ageing population and a wide range of ramifications, global ageing will alter the way developed and developing societies function. It is essential that policy-makers and leaders plan adequately for the changes ahead.

Over three million people, including 200,000 older people were affected by the Haiti earthquake of 12 January 2010. Since the earthquake, HelpAge has provided 25,000 older people and their families with food, cash, essential basic items, shelter and, mobility aids. We have also distributed Tough Stuff kits, which contain solar-powered radios and lamps. However, two years later and despite the huge efforts from various actors, the lives of thousands of older Haitians have not improved. Older people still face discrimination and remain largely excluded from the relief work.

By Navdha Malhotra HelpAge International is working to help 2,500 older people and their families affected by the Thailand floods. The worst floods in five decades have affected over four million households and 13.5 million people. Urgent need for food and income security Despite the situation improving as flood waters...

To mark World AIDS Day this year, HelpAge organised a conference on HIV and Ageing in Africa on 2 and 3 December in Ethiopia. Organised in partnership with UNAIDS, WHO and the University of Sydney, it was held before the official ICASA 2011 conference.