The Vulnerability of Older People in Croatia to Climate Change and Natural Disasters: Challenges to Legal Protection
The Vulnerability of Older People in Croatia to Climate Change and Natural Disasters: Challenges to Legal Protection

Author(s): Davor Muhvić, Mira Lulić
Subject(s): Energy and Environmental Studies, Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Welfare systems, Gerontology
Published by: Sveučilište Josipa Jurja Strossmayera u Osijeku, Ekonomski fakultet u Osijeku
Keywords: climate change; human rights; older people; social welfare system; Croatia;
Summary/Abstract: We live in an era of climate change, which represents one of the greatest challenges facing our civilization. The most vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected by climate change, and older people are certainly among the most exposed. Since Croatia has an aging population, there is a growing need for specialized health and social services and programs. Furthermore, during extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and flash floods, older people face an increased risk of physical and mental health problems, as well as greater dependence on assistance from family members, social workers, and healthcare professionals. Adapting to climate change is financially demanding, and older people are often economically disadvantaged. This increases their economic vulnerability and makes adaptation more difficult. International law, as well as Croatian national law, still does not provide an adequate legal framework for protecting the rights of older people in the context of climate change and natural disasters. In addition, Croatian authorities still lack sufficiently developed public policies and measures to address the adverse effects of climate change on older people. Older people are certainly among those who require special care, and therefore their rights need to be further supported and strengthened.

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