The second-ever global meeting between disability organisations took place on 16 and 17 February 2022 with the Global Disability Summit (GDS). Hosted by the International Disability Alliance, Norway and Ghana governments, the event aimed to accelerate the much-needed progress towards the fulfilment of the rights of people with disabilities worldwide.
The event was virtual due to the ongoing global pandemic, and followed on the first gathering, which took place in 2018 in London. The 2022 Summit saw participants reaffirm the Charter for Change, which was adopted during the first gathering. In addition, participants again highlighted their commitment to ensure political will and leadership creating lasting and meaningful change for people with disabilities.
“People with disabilities want equality through access and participation,” the GDS states. “To obtain lasting change at the country level, we seek collaboration with States, multilateral organisations, and civil society. We seek action and we seek the voices of persons with disabilities themselves.”
Following the Summit, roughly 1 300 commitments were made by various representatives. To continue to make progress, several areas were highlighted including the following:
- A human rights-based approach to inclusive development with a particular focus on gender equality is required.
- Leadership and diverse representation of all people with disabilities are required, which includes close consultations.
- The advancement of an inclusive and accessible, quality educational system is required with a focus on: every child has the right to learn.
- It’s vital to create an equitable health programme to ensure the health and wellbeing of all people with disabilities.
- People with disabilities need access to employment opportunities to secure a livelihood, enjoy decent work, and achieve financial independence.
“The GDS commitment tracking system should serve as the platform where all parties can share their progress,” the co-chairs of GDS stated in their report. “As co-chairs, we value the high-level engagement from all stakeholders. We reaffirm our commitment to eliminating stigma, barriers, and discrimination against persons with disabilities through legislation, policies and advocacy work done together with organisations of persons with disabilities.”
To learn more about the event, organisation and commitments made, visit the GDS website here.
