Pakistan's Council on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Takes Progressive Steps

Strategic Insights -

The Council on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), constituted under Section 3 of the ICT Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2020, convened at the Ministry of Human Rights on Friday under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar. The meeting aimed to review progress and deliberate on key initiatives for the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs). The council approved the launch of an Accessibility Audit, developed in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), and introduced a new disability registration form to facilitate comprehensive data collection. A user-friendly mobile application was also developed to assist persons with disabilities in accessing information and services.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CRPD approved the launch of an Accessibility Audit, developed in collaboration with the WHO, to assess physical access in public and private facilities.
  • The audit will aim to integrate inclusive infrastructure such as ramps, wheelchair-friendly restrooms, and accessible design features in restaurants, shopping malls, educational institutions, government buildings, and the private sector.
  • The CRPD introduced Part II of the disability registration form to facilitate comprehensive data collection for evidence-based policymaking.
  • A user-friendly mobile application will be developed to assist persons with disabilities in accessing information and services, featuring voice navigation and screen reader compatibility for visually impaired individuals.
  • Federal Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar emphasized the importance of embedding disability inclusion within the educational system and proposed awarding special recognition certificates to institutions making notable progress in fostering inclusive environments.
  • The minister called upon public and private sectors to ensure that persons with disabilities are not only accommodated but also empowered as equal and active members of society.

Statistics:

  • No specific statistics were mentioned in the provided text regarding the number of participants, the scope of the Accessibility Audit, or the number of institutions expected to participate in future initiatives.

Sources:

  • ICT Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2020
  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • Federal Ministry of Human Rights
  • Council on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)