317. The phenomenon of ageing of the population is accompanied by significant social, economic and cultural repercussions. Owing to this, older persons also suffer from poverty which deepens their vulnerability. The difficulties they face can be summarized as follows: Isolation Difficult access to social services, in particular, health care; Marginalization and stigmatization 318. Several measures have been taken on older persons. In this regard, regulatory measures have been taken and legislative measures are ongoing, particularly the draft bill on the protection of older persons which is in the process of adoption. Concerning the Madrid International Action Plan, Niger has incorporated the social protection of older persons into Article 25 of its Constitution of 25 November 2010. This Article provides that: “The Government shall ensure oversight of Older Persons in accordance with the Social Protection Policy”. Through this policy, priorities are derived for the improvement of their livelihoods including the following: - Strengthening free health care by using social funds earmarked for the health sector; - Establishment of a National Council of Older Persons (CNPA) through Order No. 029/MPO/SG/DL of 31 October 2016, determining its composition and powers; - Establishment of a National Committee for the Protection of Older Persons established by Order No.17/MP/PF/PE/DGPE/PS/DPPA/PPH/DL of 13 March 2012, determining its responsibilities, composition and functioning; - Institutionalization of a solidarity week during which several visits are organized to the homes of older persons in order to provide them with support and assistance; - Annual celebration of 1st October on the International Day of Older Persons; - Establishment of regional, departmental and municipal councils for the protection of older persons; - Definition of a budgetary line for older persons; - Conduct of a survey on the socio-economic situation of older persons in Niger in order to assess the needs of the target group; - Holding of an international workshop in Niamey from 24 to 25 January 2019 that brought together Member States of the OIC with the aim of designing an Action Plan on the improvement of the wellbeing of older persons. 319. The security situation in recent years marked by recurrent attacks by terrorist groups has worsened the situation of the already vulnerable population and caused other problems related to humanitarian support for displaced persons and refugees fleeing from areas affected by insecurity. Against this background, persons with disabilities and older persons are among the most vulnerable and are victims of discriminations and suffer from social and economic inequalities, thus impeding their access to basic social services and their full and effective participation in societal life. IV. THE RIGHTS OF PEOPLES AND THEIR DUTIES AS STIPULATED IN THE CHARTER A. Rights of Peoples 1) Rights of Peoples to Equality: Article 19 320. Niger has reaffirmed its commitment to African Unity and has pledged to do all it takes to implement regional and sub-regional integration in the preamble of its Constitution. It has also expressed its determination to cooperate in friendship, equality and mutual respect with all peoples concerned about peace, justice and freedom. 69