The UK Has Finally Ratified The CRPD!
Readers, I am absolutely thrilled. I have just read on the BBC Ouch blog that, on Monday 8th June 2009, the UK finally ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (CRPD).
The Convention is a landmark agreement that aims to give the world’s 650 million disabled people full equality, and ratification means that a country accepts its legal obligations under the treaty and ensures that any necessary laws are passed.
But what rights are guaranteed for disabled people by this Convention? Well, in summary, it’s about protecting your rights when it comes to making your own decisions; saying no to being placed in an institution; saying no to medical or psychological treatment; and living in the community. It also seeks to remove barriers to participation in daily life and enable equal opportunities for all.
I wish I could have heard about, and reported, this fantastic news earlier. But, better late than never. To borrow the words of a very famous astronaut, this one small step for the mainstream is a giant leap for DisAbility.
Same Difference 
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