Building inclusive community for children with disabilities Contribution to the discussion for the 3 rd committee resolution on the rights of the child. June, 17 th 2011 International Disability Alliance

What is CRPD? The first human rights treaty of the 21st century The negotiation process: nothing about us, without us Since 2006: 149 signatories and 101 ratifications of the Convention 90 signatories and 61 ratifications of the Optional Protocol

CRPD and Duties of States CRPD does not create any new rights, but instead provides for full enjoyment of human rights of persons with disabilities. CRPD: Requires to introduce measures that promote and protect human rights of persons with disabilities Acknowledges the need for progressive realization for the implementation of some provisions BUT requires immediate non discrimination including provision of reasonable accommodation

CRPD and Children with Disabilities CRPD guides the interpretation of CRC with regards to children with disabilities CRPD recognizes that particular focus should be put on children with disabilities in particular: Recognition of the evolving capacities of children Right to live in the community and right to family (no institution) Right to education that should be inclusive

Society norms, beliefs.. Community and services (early childhood, pre school, school) Family Child with disability Children with Disabilities in Community

Family: Facilitator….

..or barrier?

Social Services: facilitator…

Or barrier?

As a result?

It does not have to be about luck …

The cost of doing nothing or not enough Resistance to include child and parents, wrong message sent to parents Less resilience of families No awareness, adequate training, accessibility in community and mainstream services No disability awareness, information and counseling, or financial support to parents INCREASE PRESSURE on families and on the child Invisibility of children with disabilities, reinforce charity approach Isolation, loss of confidence, over protection or violence from families FAMILYCOMMUNITY

The right policies! Inclusion of child and parents, supportive message sent to parents, supportive services Strong resilience of families, awareness, adequate training, accessibility in community and mainstream services awareness, information, counseling and financial support More participation of child in family life and community life Increase visibility of children with disabilities, emphasize the potential and the rights of the child Raising confidence of families and child about opportunities FAMILY COMMUNITY

Reduce the pressure= Remove barriers * Increase support Raising awareness with society, system, family Family support (awareness, peer support, financial support, support services) No gap policy