Annual Report 2014 policy or confirmed the framework. In particular, with the opening of the Daejeon Regional Human Rights Office (Oct. 15, 2014), the human rights institutionalization is expected to be actively discussed in the Daejeon and Chungcheong region. B. ASEM Initiative on Global Aging and Human Rights of Older Persons Acknowledged in the 10th ASEM Summit On the occasion of the 10th ASEM Summit in October 2014, the Commission suggested the ASEM Initiative on Global Aging and Human Rights of Older Persons as a new initiative, led by the Republic of Korea, for approval. Human rights of the elderly is an issue that every person and family in the world shall face in the life cycle. In particular, the complex human rights issues of the elderly, one of the most vulnerable groups, including poverty, health, and housing should be addressed. Given that these issues are not unique in Korea, but common in every member state of ASEM, there has been consensus for developing joint action plans and directions through mutual cooperation among countries in Asia and Europe. The experience of European countries in responding to issues of an aging society provides significant lessons to Asian countries, including Korea, in addressing low-birth rates and the restructuring of the social security system. On the other hand, Korea’s struggle for, and achievements of resolving the issues of an unprecedentedly rapid aging population can have implications for other Asian and European countries. According to the project plan which was suggested by the Commission, and included to Annexes of the Chair’s Statement of the 10th ASEM, ASEM Initiative on Global Aging and Human Rights of Older Persons will hold an international conference in 2015 and run a working group with the aim of adopting the Joint Declaration for 56 ▪▪▪ Part II. Major Activities of the Commission