Challenges for the operation of councils for the rights of older people and their social consequences

Abstract

Objective to understand the perceptions of councilors about the functioning of councils for the rights of older people in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. Method This is an analytical cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach carried out with municipal councilors for the rights of older people in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. 109 councilors participated, with a predominance of full members, female, from government representation and with a higher education level. Results Several challenges were identified for the performance and operation of the councils, among which stand out: isolated actions, low participation of government members and representation of civil society, little time for discussion in meetings and the need for valid instruments to monitor the actions of the councils. Low technical knowledge of the councilors and aversion to divergences and political positions were also evidenced. Conclusion it is essential to ensure intersectoral policies, greater independence from the executive and, above all, greater training of councilors and democratic political strengthening so that they can not only promote, but exercise a socio-political protagonism based on a collective construction and social representation.