Marking historic progress on rights for persons with disabilities, UN conference tackles critical gaps

Known as COSP19, this year’s Conference of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities runs from 9 to 11 June under the theme Celebrating and consolidating achievements and shaping the next phase of implementation in a changing world, with roundtable discussions, elections, decisions on best ways forward and first-hand accounts of challenges, innovative solutions and success stories from around the world.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres calls for the vital next step towards a world where all of us are respected and included during the opening session held in the iconic General Assembly Hall.

“While progress is real, it is unacceptably slow,” the UN chief said.

Actions hinge on the convention, CRPD, a legally-binding agreement between Member State signatories to uphold, promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2006 and now ratified by 192 countries.

Twenty years later, much has been accomplished, including that over 90 percent of countries have laws guaranteeing the rights of persons with disabilities, but much more must be done in light of the latest UN Disability and Development Report findings that show almost all of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators for persons with disabilities are off track.

‘Luckily, it is possible to redesign the world’

Pointing to a world facing crises, from climate change and conflict to a global surge in the cost of living, Mr. Guterres said, “too often, living with a disability means living in a world designed by and for others. Luckily, it is possible to redesign the world.”

Striving to lead by example, the UN’s Disability Inclusion Strategy aims to ensure change, led by the insights of people with disabilities.

“Together, let’s realise the rights of every person with disabilities and build a fair and vibrant future for all.”

Civil society voices heard

Communities from around the world have already amplified their voices on Monday, holding a multi-session Civil Society Forum under the auspices of COSP19 to tackle pressing issues, from building resilient societies to enhancing accessible civic engagement, leadership and advocacy in political and public life.

Ukrainian context

For Ukraine, the rights of people with disabilities and their participation in decision-making have become particularly acute due to the full-scale war of Russia against Ukraine. The number of people with disabilities is increasing both among military veterans and civilians. At the same time, many people face barriers in accessing healthcare, rehabilitation, education, and employment, especially in regions affected by hostilities.

Issues of infrastructure accessibility, as well as access to shelters and transportation, also remain critically important. In these conditions, the focus is not only on recovery, but on rebuilding the country in a way that takes into account the needs of all people.

Check out UN News’ first live blog takeover by activist, actor and talk show host Nick Herd, who was our guest editor, sharing his story and journey throughout the opening day of the 17th session, here.

The conference recording can be found at the link.