The fourteenth ASEM Global Ageing Center Roundtable, under the theme of 'Development of Digital Technology and Human Rights of Older Persons,' took place online and was chaired by Dr. Hye-Kyung Lee, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of AGAC, on December 1st, 2023. This roundtable featured five case presentations by experts from South Korea, Norway, Singapore, Japan, and Germany​, followed by a Q&A session and discussion.

· Prof. Yeong-Ran Park (Dept. of Silver Industry, Kangnam University, Korea)

  : Digital Transformation of Aging Services in Korea)

· Dr. Arne Henning Eide, Chief Scientist (SINTEF, Norway)

  : From vulnerable to valuable – digital inclusion of older people

· Prof. Carol Ma (Dept. of Social Gerontology, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore)

  : Promoting Access to Assistive Technology for Healthy Ageing in Singapore

· Prof. Takeo Ogawa, Emeritus Professor (Dept. of Social Welfare, Kyushu University)

  : Promoting Human Rights of Older Persons through the Expansion of Public Accessibility of  

    Assistive/Welfare Technology in Japan

· Dr. Janina Stiel (Federal Ministry of Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth)

  : Navigating the Digital Divide: Empowering Older Adults through Digitization Policies in Germany

Dr. Hye-Kyung Lee wrapped up the discussion, reminding the participants of the importance of having consistent dialogues, and highlighting that we are living in the era of longevity and digital transformation. She also mentioned that we have come to the point where the two can be harmonized. She emphasized what Prof. Ogawa talked about technology, humanity and impersonal care problems, and the importance of keeping human rights of older persons, rights for respect and dignity in mind when utilizing assistive technology, which Prof. Carol Ma pointed out. Dr. Lee expressed gratitude to the participants for sharing insightful case studies and officially closed the Roundtable.

* Please refer to the attached summary of meeting for detailed information.