U.S. calls for inclusive democratic process
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The United States has called for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the democratic process worldwide to ‘‘combat discrimination and abuse, counter prejudice, and protect their rights’’.
In a press release issued on the International Day of Persons With Disability on Friday, the US government said policies related to elections and civic engagement were not fully inclusive for persons with disabilities around the world.
“The United States remains steadfast in our commitment and resolve to advance the human rights of persons with disabilities at home and around the world,” partly read the statement.
“We urge foreign governments to engage persons with disabilities in the democratic process, of combating discrimination and abuse, counter prejudice, and protect their rights and ensure their inclusion in all facets of life on an equal basis with other people.”
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated on December 3 of every year to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities around the world.
The global theme for this year’s celebration was “Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world”.
The US noted that “given the more than one billion persons living with disabilities globally, the widespread inaccessibility is an enormous and untenable disenfranchisement’’.
The U.S. government in the statement promised to be a model for diversity, equality, inclusion, and accessibility as a reflection of fundamental values that ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
“That is why President Biden appointed Sara Minkara to serve as U. S. Special Advisor on International Disability Rights – a role critical to ensuring disability-inclusive U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance,” it added.
“We know the best, most durable, and lasting solutions arise when governments embrace, respect, and integrate diverse perspectives from all communities, including persons with disabilities.”
