The UAE Showcases Its Efforts in Supporting People of Determination at the Conference of States Parties
In the context of enhancing the rights of people of determination, the United Arab Emirates’ participation in the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18) marks a significant milestone. This conference, recently held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, was chaired by Minister of Community Development, Sana’a bint Suhail, who addressed the UAE’s ongoing efforts to support people of determination and activate their rights. This step demonstrates the country’s steadfast commitment to providing equal opportunities for them and highlighting their exceptional capabilities.
The UAE’s Commitment to Supporting People of Determination
During the general discussion, the Minister of Community Development presented the strategic directions of the UAE towards supporting and empowering people of determination. She affirmed that the country “believes that persons with disabilities, or as we call them ‘people of determination,’ are partners in building the nation.” The minister noted that the UAE has adopted a comprehensive approach aimed at creating a society that embraces all its members and promotes values of tolerance and justice. This determination is reflected in the mechanisms the country has established to facilitate their effective participation in various aspects of life.
Supporting Initiatives and Programs
Sana’a bint Suhail addressed the tangible achievements made by the UAE in empowering people of determination, highlighting six main areas: healthcare, education, employment, social protection, accessibility, and community participation. Through these areas, the government supports a strong legislative framework, represented by Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, in addition to local strategies aimed at integrating people of determination into society, such as the Abu Dhabi and Dubai strategies.
The UAE’s International Efforts
The minister added that the UAE hosts a number of important global events that build on this momentum, such as the International Rehabilitation Conference 2024 and the Special Olympics 2019. Additionally, the historic decision in 2019 to host the headquarters of the Asian Paralympic Committee reflects the country’s commitment to issues concerning people of determination at both regional and international levels. Through its participation in the Conference of States Parties, the UAE aims to enhance this comprehensive approach to addressing challenges and creating opportunities for people of determination.
Cultural and Diplomatic Forum
On the sidelines of the conference, the UAE organized the “Forum” event, which serves as a platform to enhance dialogue among stakeholders. This event brought together a large group of guests, providing an opportunity to exchange ideas on ways to support and empower people of determination. The country’s participation in the Conference of States Parties represents a pioneering step in building inclusive and effective policies, making the UAE a role model in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.
The UAE hopes, through its dedicated session titled “Elevating Our Voices: A Collective Ambition Towards Reimagining Community Inclusion for All,” to enhance cooperation among global stakeholders and develop new strategies for inclusivity.
Sana’a bint Suhail: “The UAE believes that persons with disabilities, or as we call them ‘people of determination,’ are partners in building the nation.”