Media Statement
For Immediate Release

30 March 2007

Disability treaty to correct injustices, opens for signature

A groundbreaking new human rights treaty to protect the rights of the world’s 650 million people with disabilities is being welcomed by Tangata Whenua, and community and voluntary sector organisations.

The new convention will be opened for signature at the United Nations on 30 March 2007 (US Eastern Time).

Over 40 countries, including New Zealand, have already indicated they will sign the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities when it opens for signature by States and regional organisations at a solemn ceremony in the UN General Assembly hall.

Many more are expected to announce their intention in the coming weeks leading up to the signing event.

Trish Grant, director of advocacy at IHC says that, at its core, the convention ensures that persons with disabilities enjoy the same human rights as everyone else, and are able to lead their lives as ordinary citizens who can make valuable contributions to society if given the same opportunities.

“The convention would not have happened without an enormous effort from disabled campaigners in New Zealand and around the world. It was the disability community that came together at the global level to fight for a specific treaty that would recognise their rights.”

Dave Henderson, national coordinator of ANGOA and former Secretary General of Rehabilitation International, says the New Zealand Government should be congratulated for playing a lead role in negotiations for the convention and being the first delegation to include people with disabilities.

“The convention aims to ensure better recognition of the rights of every person and covers rights such as equality, non-discrimination, equal recognition before the law; liberty and security of the person; accessibility, personal mobility and independent living; right to health, work and education and participation in political and cultural life.”

Tina Reid, executive director of the New Zealand Federation of Voluntary Welfare Organisations (NZFVWO) says this is an example of how a network of member states, organisations and individuals can come together to effect change.

“Member States and the disability community worked together at the UN to create a treaty that ensures that persons with disabilities finally enjoy all the rights and responsibilities that others in society take for granted.”

The treaty will enter into force when ratified by 20 countries.

ENDS

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