At a UN conference, MP Tom Pursglove expressed the need for the UK’s disability action to ensure better living and working conditions for disabled people
This week, at the 16th Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP16), he gave this speech to a distinguished audience, showcasing the United Kingdom’s strategy to amplify the voices of disabled individuals to foster economic growth for society.
The Minister also praised the United Kingdom’s unwavering dedication to upholding UK’s disability action by promoting inclusivity.
UK’s disability action: Inclusivity and economic growth
In his speech at COSP16, Tom Pursglove MP, expressed:
“The global context of numerous humanitarian and economic crises, plus the continuing impact of the pandemic, means disability inclusion risks falling further down the agenda.
“The UK remains committed to championing disability rights and inclusion globally.
Pursglove also emphasised the UK’s commitment to integrating the principles of its international Disability Inclusion and Rights Strategy across its extensive diplomatic and development network, building upon its launch last year.
International collaborations and domestic reforms for disability rights
As part of a global initiative to enhance international cooperation in safeguarding the rights of disabled individuals, the Minister actively engaged in a series of bilateral meetings and roundtable discussions at the United Nations headquarters.
These interactions involved counterparts from various nations, including the USA, Canada, Germany, Norway, and other countries.
Within the UK, the Government is actively pursuing several significant reforms across various governmental departments to realize this goal.
One notable initiative is the upcoming Disability Action Plan, which will undergo consultations with disabled individuals and stakeholders later this year.
These reforms are poised to contribute to the Prime Minister’s primary objective of fostering improved employment prospects and opportunities for individuals throughout the nation.
Transformative technology for special needs individuals
At the conference, the Minister, in his address to international delegates, affirmed the UK’s commitment to advancing the comprehensive, engaged, and significant involvement of disabled individuals in their initiatives.
Additionally, the Minister actively engaged in a dialogue concerning transformative Assistive Technology (AT), an area where the UK takes a leading role through the AT2030 program facilitated by the Global Disability Innovation Hub.
This initiative focuses on developing innovative and inclusive technologies that have the potential to significantly improve the lives of millions of individuals.
Promoting social and economic inclusion
During a collaborative side event organized with the Canadian delegation, the Minister delved into strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the social and economic inclusion of disabled individuals.
The discussions focused on tackling poverty, improving accessibility, and fostering a more inclusive society.
In another significant side event co-hosted with representatives from Germany, the Minister explored measures to bridge the digital divide and enable disabled individuals to fully leverage the advantages of technological innovation.
The conversations revolved around investing in initiatives that prioritize digital accessibility, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
