The Government of Argentina, partnered with the International Alliance Disability (IDA) and the Latin American Network of Non-Governmental Organizations of Persons with Disabilities and their Families (RIADIS), is set to host the second “Disability Summit” in Buenos Aires in 2019. Following the inaugural “Global Disability Summit” in London in 2018, this event seeks to stimulate thought around formulating and strengthening public policies and good practices for individuals with disabilities.
A Platform to Voice Concerns
Foremost among the objectives of the Summit is ensuring that the voices of people with disabilities lead the discussions across various panels. The event is expected to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders including governments, organizations representing people with disabilities, civil society organizations, international organizations, international cooperation agencies, academia and the private sector.
Their collective ambition is to effect tangible change for individuals with disabilities. For many, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) represents not just a comprehensive human rights convention but also an international development tool and the backbone of the disability rights movement.
About the International Alliance Disability (IDA)
Established in 1999, the International Disability Alliance (IDA) serves as an umbrella organization aimed at boosting global awareness and rights for people with disabilities. Comprising eight global and six regional organizations, they strive to advocate for a more inclusive global environment for persons with disabilities and their organizations at the UN.
The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
An optional UN protocol, the UNCRPD was adopted on December 13, 2006, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. India signed the UNCRPD and subsequently ratified the same on October 1, 2007. The Convention came into effect on May 3, 2008.
Being a signatory to the Convention, India has an international obligation to comply with its provisions. India has also passed The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill in 2016.
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption of UNCRPD | December 13, 2006 | Adopted at the United Nations Headquarters in New York |
| India Ratification | October 1, 2007 | India becomes a signatory to the UNCRPD |
| Effective Date of UNCRPD | May 3, 2008 | The Convention comes into effect globally |
| Passage of The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill | 2016 | India passes national legislation in compliance with the Convention |
| International day of persons with disabilities | December 3rd (Annually) | A day observed internationally to advocate for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities |
A Global Attempt
This global effort underpins the importance and urgency of creating a world that is inclusive and accepting of all, regardless of physical or mental ability. Events like the Disability Summit provide a platform that holds the potential to instigate real transformation in attitudes, policies, and practices worldwide.
