SDGs and CRPD: The Linkage Between The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

 

Introduction

In 2006 the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) came into force with 50 Articles.  The CRPD is one of nine core international human rights treaties and it includes 33 core articles covering all areas of life of PWDs.

In February 2016, 161 out of 193 United Nations Member States or over 80% of countries have ratified the CRPD.  Once a country ratifies this means that the country is legally bound to implement the core 33 articles and must report on their progress in writing to the United Nations on a periodic basis.

Eventually, after three years of intense intergovernmental negotiations, the United Nations Member States adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in September 2015. The 2030 Agenda has 17 goals for sustainable development and 169 targets.  There are 11 explicit references to persons with disabilities in the 2030 Agenda, and disaggregation of data by disability is a core principle.

The 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will influence the direction of global and national policies relating to sustainable development for the next 15 years. If the 2030 Agenda is going to be successful all of the UN Member States - 193 countries - must include persons with disabilities in their national plans for implementation and monitoring.

Therefore, this blog aims at illustrating how the 17 goals of the SDGs and the 33 articles of the CRPD are linked to each other, it is important to stress that both the SDGs and the CRPD must be implemented as a whole; This means that countries should not ‘cherry pick’ single goals or articles, as all of them form part of a complex and interconnected equation.

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)

According to the World Report on Disability by WHO and World Bank (2011), there are an estimated 1 billion persons with disabilities worldwide. The same report states that 1 in 5 of the world’s poorest people have disabilities.  Disability is both a cause and consequence of poverty, yet international policy-makers and stakeholders have not historically recognised or prioritized this issue within international development efforts.

How Does the SDGs and CRPD Work Together

The text of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be interpreted through the lens of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in the following ways:

1- All references to ‘equal’ must be underpinned by CRPD article 5, which promotes equality of opportunity and non-discrimination of persons with disabilities.

2- References ‘for all’ include all persons with disabilities - people with different types of impairments and support requirements; women with disabilities (CRPD article 6) and children with disabilities (CRPD article 7).

3- All references to ‘access’ or ‘inclusion’ can be fulfilled by article 9 of the CRPD on accessibility which requires governments to take action to ensure persons with disabilities the right to independent living and participate in all aspects of life.

4- All references to ‘those in vulnerable situations’ include the right of protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk, natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies (CRPD article 11).

5- All progress made by the SDGs must be monitored through disability disaggregated data (CRPD article 31).

6- All References to ‘development and/or least developed countries’ relate to international cooperation and partnerships (CRPD article 32).

Linkage Between The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

Goal 1: No Poverty

End poverty in all its forms everywhere: this goal is underpinned by the right to life (CRPD article 10), control over one’s own resources by guaranteeing equal recognition before the law (CRPD article 12) and an adequate standard of living and social protection (article 28), as well as articles 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 31 and 32.

Goal 2: Zero Hunger

End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture:  The right to adequate food, including food security, safeguards, and an adequate standard of living (CRPD article 28), control over land, property and inheritance can be guaranteed by equal recognition before the law (CRPD article 12), as well as articles 5, 6, 7, 9, 31 and 32.

Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages: This is underpinned by the right to life (CRPD article 10); access to sexual and reproductive health services is recognized by the right to enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health without discrimination on the basis of disability (CRPD article 25), family planning, information and education is ensured by respect for home and the family (CRPD article 23), as well as articles 6, 7, 9, 11, 31 and 32.

Goal 4: Quality Education

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote life-long learning opportunities for all: Article 24 of the CRPD promotes an inclusive education system at all levels on the basis of equal opportunity and freedom from exclusion; persons with disabilities must have effective access to general technical and vocational guidance programmes, placement services and vocational and continuing training as outlined in  article 27 of the CRPD; safe, non-violent learning environments can be enabled by protection from exploitation, violence and abuse outside the home in article 16  of the CRPD, in addition articles 5, 6, 7, 9, 31 and 32 apply.

Goal 5: Gender Equality

Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls: Article 6 of the CRPD recognizes that women and girls with disabilities are subjected to multiple discrimination; the elimination of harmful practices requires effective women- and child-focused legislation and policies as outlined in article 16 of the CRPD; the provision of social protection policies is covered by article 28 of the CRPD; the right to participation in political and public life relates to article 29 of the CRPD; the right to the same range and quality and standard of free or affordable sexual and reproductive health is recognized in article 25 of the CRPD; the right to reproductive and family planning is ensured through respect for home and family (CRPD article 23); women’s right to ownership over land, property and inheritance is acknowledged in CRPD article 12’s right to equal recognition before the law; and the right to accessible information and communications for women and girls is outlined in article 21 of the CRPD; the promotion of gender equality for women and girls with disabilities is recognised in article 8 of the CRPD on awareness-raising, in addition articles 5, 7, 9 and 31 are applicable.

Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all: Article 28 of the CRPD recognises the right to the continuous improvement of living conditions, access to clean water and the promotion of the right to an adequate standard of living for persons with disabilities; articles 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 31 and 32 also apply.

Goal 7: Affordable Clean Energy

Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all: Universal access, especially in developing countries and the requirement to measure progress on this goal in relation to persons with disabilities are covered by articles 9, 31 and 32.

Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all: The recognition of the right of persons with disabilities to work on an equal basis with others and to gain a living by work freely chosen, and to receive equal remuneration for work of equal value and to have safe working conditions is covered by article 27 of the CRPD; equal access to banking, insurance and financial services can be enabled by upholding the right to equal recognition before the law (CRPD article 12); freedom from exploitation, violence and abuse such as forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking are rights upheld by article 16 of the CRPD. Articles 5, 6, 9 and 31 also apply.

Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation: Access to financial services including affordable credit is ensured by equal recognition before the law (CRPD article 12); ensuring personal mobility with the greatest possible independence for persons with disabilities can be guaranteed by implementing article 20 of the CRPD; freedom to access information on an equal basis with others and through all forms of communication is part of article 21 of the CRPD; promoting opportunities for self-employment, entrepreneurship, the development of cooperatives and starting one’s own business are recognised rights under article 27 of the CRPD; articles 5, 6, 7, 9, 31 and 32 are also applicable.

Goal 10: Reduced Inequality

Reduce inequality within and among countries: Ensuring enhanced representation and voice of persons with disabilities in decision-making is covered by article 4 of the CRPD; promoting the positive perceptions and greater social awareness towards persons with disabilities to foster inclusion is part of article 8 of the CRPD; facilitating safe migration and mobility can protect persons with disabilities from exploitation (CRPD article 16); ensuring access to social protection and poverty reduction programmes is contained in article 28 of the CRPD; in addition, articles 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 31 and 32 are applicable.

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable: the right of persons to an adequate standard of living for themselves and their family, including adequate housing must be realised (CRPD article 28);  persons with disabilities must be afforded personal mobility in the manner and at the time of their choice and at affordable cost (CRPD article 20); safe cities and settlements must ensure protection from violence (CRPD article 16); the environment and public transport must be accessible on an equal basis with others in urban and rural areas (CRPD article 9); participatory planning and management must be respected (CRPD article 4); Articles 5, 6, 7, 11, 31 and 32 also apply.

Goal 13: Climate Action

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts: persons with disabilities who are subject to the occurrence of natural disasters and other situations of risk must be included in all protection and safety mechanisms (CRPD article 11); climate-related planning and management must be inclusive of and accessible to persons with disabilities (CRPD article 32); articles 5, 6, 7, 9 and 31 also apply.

Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels:  death rates must be reduced by effective enjoyment of the right to life (CRPD article 10); freedom from violence, exploitation and abuse must be upheld (CRPD article 16); as must freedom from torture cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment (CRPD article 15); access to justice on an equal basis with others, including through the provision of procedural and age-appropriate accommodations must be in place (CRPD article 13); inclusive decision-making that closely consults with and actively involves persons with disabilities through their representative organisations (CRPD article 4); supported decision-making regimes should be available (CRPD article 12); the right to a legal identity is covered by CRPD article 18; persons with disabilities must enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms (CRPD article 1) and are not deprived of their liberty unlawfully (CRPD article 14); in addition, the following articles also apply: 5, 6, 7, 9, 31 and 32.

Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals

Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development: enhancing the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communication technology can be achieved for persons with disabilities by implementing article 21 of the CRPD to ensure accessibility; collection of high quality, timely and reliable data disaggregated by disability relates directly to article 31 of the CRPD on statistics and data collection; articles 9 and 32 of the CRPD especially in regard to partnerships with organisations of persons with disabilities and facilitating access to technology transfer, are also applicable.

World Autism Awareness Day April 2

Introduction

Every year on April 2nd, we commemorate World Autism Awareness Day to raise public awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a highly variable neurodevelopmental disorder that causes difficulties in social communication and is characterised by restricted and repetitive behaviours. The symptoms of ASD can be seen as early as infancy, which is cause for concern. Autism is not a new disorder; it has existed for decades. However, because many people are unaware of the disorder, it is critical to educate people by holding an Autism Awareness Day and raising global awareness. 

World Autism Awareness Day emphasises the importance of helping people with autism improve their quality of life to live a meaningful life as an essential part of society. The UN General Assembly has declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day.

Let's learn more about the Worold Autism Awareness Day.

What Is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Autism is a complex condition that involves communication and behaviour challenges. Autism is considered a life-long disorder and can be a minor problem or a major one where an individual needs full-time care and special facilities.

Autism is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder. A broad term for this type of disorder is Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). When genetic or environmental factors together start to affect the development of the brain, it is called a neurodevelopmental disorder.  

Often this type of disorder is detected in childhood, but in some rare cases, it goes undetected. Many types of disorders come in Neurodevelopmental Disorder, one of which is Autism Spectrum Disorder.

In autism spectrum disorder, humans have difficulty communicating with each other.  Repetition is seen in the behaviour of people with this disorder. 

Saying the same words over and over, avoiding socializing with other children, lashing out at refusing wrongdoing, self-harming, sabotaging, or babbling loudly is an autism developmental disability that occurs during the first three years of life.

History of World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated internationally on 2 April every year to spread awareness about autism. The day encourages the member states of the United Nations to take measures to raise awareness of people with autism spectrum disorder around the world.

This day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly resolution (A/RES/62/139). World Autism Awareness Day was passed unanimously by the Council on 1 November 2007 and was adopted on 18 December 2007.  

The day was proposed by Mojah bint Nasser Al-Misneed, the United Nations representative from Qatar and consort to Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani.

The first World Autism Awareness Day was celebrated on 02 April 2008. World Autism Awareness Day highlights the need to help and improve the quality of life of people living with autism so that they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

Objective of World Autism Awareness Day

Autism rates are very high in all regions of the world and the lack of awareness and understanding of this disorder has a tremendous impact on individuals, their families and communities. 

The stigma and discrimination associated with neurological differences remain substantial barriers to diagnosis and treatment. This is an issue that needs to be addressed by both public policymakers in developing countries as well as developed countries.

World Autism Awareness Day aims to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with autism, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.  

Autism sufferers should not be hated, but they should be loved and such children should be taken care of, assuming that even a child with autism can lead a normal life.

 

The exact cause of autism is not yet known, but scientists believe it may be linked to genetic or environmental factors. There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, but language therapy, occupational therapy, educational support and many other interventions can help children with autism and their parents.

Significance of World Autism Awareness Day

1- Autism Spectrum Disorder is brought to the attention of the world: World Autism Awareness Day plays an important role in raising awareness and informing people about disorders that can occur or identified at early age in life, such as ASD. Most of the time, new parents find it difficult to care for their child and, due to a lack of knowledge, ignore the strange activities of their child or children, which later results in saviour problems. Knowing about the disorder will allow one to easily identify the problem and expose them to earlier treatment options.

2- Encourages and support people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The day is crucial in bringing people from all over the world together to raise awareness and spread information about the Autism disorder. It also helps to change stereotypes about people with Autism and other disabilities, ultimately removing the barriers that separated the normal from the disabled.

3- Increases the number of people who are willing to help in the face of global concern.

The day focuses on activities such as donating and self-volunteering among young people to lend a hand in combating global challenges and making a difference in the world.

Activities of World Autism Awareness Day

1- Raise awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): It is the most effective way to ensure your responsibility and participation in the global event in making a difference. You can spread awareness about the day through thousands of medium today in this technological era, where social media has grown as an effective way for raising awareness, especially among the young.

2- Make a donation or organise a fundraiser: This is the simplest and most effective method to participate in World Autism Awareness Day; donating a modest portion of your salary to public well-being will have a significant impact on changing the situation.

3- Assist those in your community who are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder: You can help people with Autism Disorders in a variety of ways, including making social contact with them and being friendly and kind to them and more will help in improving their health.

How to Observe World Autism Awareness Day

1. Share information online: Even nowadays when almost everyone has access to information, there are still many people that don't know about autism and the characteristics of people with it. Become an advocate for the autistic community by educating the masses. In a nutshell, share information with people who don’t know about autism and educate them about the characteristics of people with it.

2. Get involved with autism associations: There are many people who either have autism or have a family member with autism and are a part of community-wide, nation-wide, or global-wide association. Get in contact with them to get involved in any activities planned for the day. In a nutshell, get involved with Autism associations and help people with autism with their activities planned for the day.

3. Take care of the people with autism spectrum diagnosis you know: World Autism Awareness Day is the perfect day to have a good time with your friends who are diagnosed with autism! Make sure to plan sensory-sensitive activities for you both to enjoy and pack gluten-free and casein-free foods to share. In a nutshell, the World Autism Awareness Day is the perfect day to spend time with your relatives and friends diagnosed with autism. Plan some sensory-sensitive activities to enjoy with them for the day!

World Autism Awareness Day Facts

Let’s learn some of the lesser-known World Autism Awareness Day facts:

1. Approximately every 1 in 59 children was diagnosed with autism in 2018.

2. Autism can be diagnosed at a young age of two, and early intervention offers the best chance of supporting wellbeing.

3. Gastrointestinal disorders and persistent sleep disorders are more common in children with autism than in normal children.

4. Autism is one of the rapidly growing developmental disorders in the UN and is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined.

5. At present, there is no medical detection or cure for Autism disorder.

Quotes on World Autism Awareness Day

Here are some quotes from known profiles on International Autism Day:

1. Everyone has a mountain to climb, and autism has not been my mountain, it has been my opportunity for victory. — Rachel Barcellona

2. Autism is as much a part of humanity as is the capacity to dream. — Kathleen Seidel

3. Autism… offers a chance for us to glimpse an awe-filled vision of the world that might otherwise pass us by. — Dr. Colin Zimbleman

4. Autism: Where the “randomness of life” collides and clashes with an individual’s need for the sameness. — Eileen Miller

5. Autism doesn’t have to define a person. Artists with autism are like anyone else. They define themselves through hard work and individuality. — Adrienne Bailon

6. The difference between high-functioning and low-functioning is that high-functioning means your deficits are ignored, and low-functioning means your assets are ignored. –Laura Tisoncik

7. When enough people care about autism or diabetes or global warming, it helps everyone, even if only a tiny fraction actively participate. –Seth Godin

8. To measure the success of our societies, we should examine how well those with different abilities, including persons with autism, are integrated as full and valued members. — Ban Ki-Moon

9. We need to learn to accept and celebrate our differences. And we need to continue our research in Autism Spectrum Disorder in order to understand how we can best lend a helping hand. — Alan Rosales 

10. We’ve come a long way when it comes to awareness — now it’s time for people to accept autism, allowing people, like myself, to be ourselves and benefit society along the way. — Savan Gandecha

Autism is a global health issue, and awareness about the same should increase by spotlighting the hindrances the people with autism face in their daily lives. This year, let’s pledge to acknowledge and advocate for the rights of individuals with autism worldwide.

Themes of World Autism Awareness Day

The following are the themes of World Autism Awareness Day from 2015 to 2022:

Theme 2022: 'Inclusive Quality Education for All'

It is intrinsically linked with last year's theme, emphasising the critical importance of education for people on the autism spectrum in realising their full potential and achieving long-term employment success.

Theme 2021: 'Inclusion in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities in a Post-Pandemic World'.

The theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2022 highlights the global challenges and inequalities people are facing in the aftermath of the pandemic, including unequal treatment and income distribution, an inadequate health-care system for all classes, and more. People with Autism Disorder have long been subjected to social inequity, which has become even more pronounced as a result of the global epidemic.

Theme 2020: 'The Transition to Adulthood'

Being an adult entails being self-sufficient and participating equally in the social, economic, and political life of one's community. However, for people with Autism, becoming an independent adult is a huge challenge because there is no support and few chances in the career, leaving them behind. As a result, it's critical to call attention to concerns about the transition to adulthood.

Theme 2019: 'Assistive Technologies'

The 2019 theme emphasises the critical importance of technology in today's world, including how technology aids in development and how it aids those with disabilities, such as Autism, in living a normal life. In addition, the theme emphasises that assistive technology are costly and unavailable to the majority of people due to a lack of expertise.

Theme 2018: 'Empowering Women and Girls with Autism'

Women have been limited or kept behind for centuries, not because of their ability, but because of sterotypes and discrimination by men; regrettably, women and girls suffering from Autism have been particularly exposed to unequal treatment and discrimination; thus, it is time to support women and girls and be concerned about the issues they face.

Theme 2017: Toward Autonomy and Self-Determination

Theme 2016: Autism and the 2030 Agenda: Inclusion and Neurodiversity

Theme 2015: Employment: The Autism Advantage

World Autism Awareness Symbols

When autism is depicted publicly and in the media, it is displayed as a colourful condition with various symptoms. As a result, it has several symbols and colours associated with it. Here are some of these listed below:

The Rainbow Infinity Symbol

Rainbow colours represent the range of Autism symptoms and individuals with autism’s abilities and challenges. 

The Colour Blue

The blue colour is associated with a calm feeling and acceptance of people with autism. The “Light it Up Blue” campaign calls for people to wear blue to promote autism awareness worldwide.

The Puzzle Piece

Many people feel that people with autism do not fit societal expectations and social circles. Therefore, the use of this symbol has garnered both positive and negative attention.

The Butterfly Symbol

Suggested replacement for the puzzle piece, the butterfly symbol inspires thoughts of change and represents the beauty of diversity and continued development.

The Infinity Symbol

Like the butterfly symbol, the infinity symbol also inspires thoughts of inclusivity for people on the spectrum.

DISABILITY AND THE MEDIA: PROMOTING AN IMAGE OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES BY THE MEDIA

  

ABSTRACT

This article intends to provide tips and hints as well as insight to the media on how to promote positive, inclusive images of persons with disabilities and stimulate a climate of non-discrimination and equal opportunity in all aspects of  society for persons with disabilities. It is intended for people working as editors, journalists, broadcasters, producers, programme makers and presenters. It is also relevant to people working as web editors, and content managers of social and interactive media platforms.

Keywords: Disability, Media, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

INTRODUCTION

The media - television, radio, newspapers, magazines, the Internet, social media and other forms - play an important role in influencing public opinion and attitudes. The choice of words, images and messages can determine perceptions, attitudes and behaviours. It can also define what does or does not matter to individuals and the world around them (ILO, 2015).

How persons with disabilities are portrayed and the frequency with which they appear in the media has an enormous impact on how they are regarded in society. While there are some disability-specific media programmes, such as television documentaries,  persons with disabilities rarely appear as part of mainstream or inclusive programmes. When they do appear, they are often stigmatized or stereotyped, and may appear as either objects of pity or superheroic accomplishment and endurance. Including them in regular programmes on television and radio in addition to other types of media helps to provide fair and balanced representation and break down barriers to acceptance and create better understanding about persons with disabilities (ILO, 2015).

Portraying persons with disabilities with dignity and respect in the media can help and promote more inclusive and tolerant societies. Why is this important? First, because people with disabilities make up approximately 1 billion, or 15%, of the global population (WHO & World Bank, 2011). Second, as a group, they are often subject to discrimination or exclusion from basic services such as health, education, training and work opportunities. As a result, people with disabilities experience poorer health, lower educational achievements, and have fewer economic opportunities and higher rates of poverty than people without disabilities. Third, in many countries, persons with disabilities often lack access to information about policies, laws and improvements in programmes and services that directly affect them. This knowledge gap perpetuates their exclusion from mainstream social, economic and political life (ILO, 2015).

Promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities requires the recognition of all people as full members of society and the respect of all their rights. Inclusion also involves ensuring the participation of people with disabilities in all basic services available to the general population and the removal of barriers – physical, attitudinal, legal, regulatory, policy, lack of information in accessible formats – that prevent them from fully participating in society. What is more, promoting equality of opportunities and access to services and information for persons with disabilities is also critical to strategies for reducing poverty, a shared objective of the international community (ILO, 2015).

DISABILITY

The term disability covers a wide range of different physical, psycho-social, sensory or intellectual impairments which may or may not affect a person’s ability to carry out their day to day activities, including their jobs. Persons with disabilities with disabilities work in all sectors of the economy and in all types of roles. Many have demonstrated that with the right opportunities and adjustment, where required, to a job or the work environment, they can make a valuable contribution to the world of work. 

Facts about persons with disabilities

• One billion of the world’s population, or 15%, live with a disability.

• Persons with disabilities are at a higher risk of poverty in every country, whether measured in traditional economic indicators relative to GDP or, more broadly, in non-monetary aspects of living standards such as education, health and living conditions. 

• Women with disabilities are at greater risk of poverty than men with disabilities (Mitra et al., 2011). Their poverty is linked to their very limited opportunities for education and skills development. Approximately 785 million women and men with disabilities are of working age, but the majority do not work. When they do work, they earn less than people without disabilities but further gender disparities exist. Women with disabilities earn less than men with disabilities. 

• According to an ILO pilot study of ten low- and middle-income developing countries, excluding people with disabilities from the labour force results in estimated GDP losses ranging from 3 and 7 per cent (Buckup, 2009).

• People with disabilities are frequently excluded from education, vocational training and employment opportunities.

• 51% of young boys with disabilities completed primary school, compared with 61% of young boys without disabilities, based on World Health Organization (WHO) surveys in more than fifty countries. In the same survey, girls with disabilities reported 42% primary school completion compared with 53% of girls without disabilities (WHO & World Bank, 2011).

• Disability affects not only the person with a disability, but also their families. Many family members who provide primary care to another family member with a disability have often left work due to their caring responsibilities. What is more, carers and the families of people with disabilities usually experience a higher level of financial hardship than the general population (Inclusion International, 2007).

THE ROLE OF THE MEDIA

“Images and stories in the media can deeply influence public opinion and establish societal norms. Persons with disabilities are seldom covered in the media, and when they are featured, they are often negatively stereotyped and not appropriately represented. It is not uncommon to see persons with disabilities treated as objects of pity, charity or medical treatment that have to overcome a tragic and disabling condition or conversely, presented as superheroes who have accomplished great feats, so as to inspire the non-disabled”.

“The media can be a vital instrument in raising awareness, countering stigma and misinformation about PWDs. It can be a powerful force to change societal misconceptions and present persons with disabilities as individuals that are a part of human diversity. By increasing the awareness and understanding of disability issues and the diversity of persons with disabilities and their situations, the media can actively contribute to an effective and successful integration of persons with disabilities in all aspects of societal life.  Indeed, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities requires the States to raise awareness and combat stereotypes related to persons with disabilities, including by encouraging all media to portray persons with disabilities in a manner consistent with a respect for human rights”.

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

“Attention should be drawn to the image of disability in the media with a view to an accurate and balanced portrayal of disability as a part of everyday life. The media can play an important role in presenting disability issues in a way that could dispel negative stereotypes and promote the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Furthermore, options should be developed on how to present persons with disabilities in various media and the importance of supporting the work of the United Nations to build a peaceful and inclusive society for all”.

“The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities can work as a tool to enhance the work of the media in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, as well as to promoting their access to education, employment, health and other areas of development on an equal basis with others”.

STORY IDEAS FOR DISABILITY

Journalists can help to shape a better understanding about persons with disabilities and in particular the overwhelming barriers they face with respect to health, education, employment and work, and access to the physical environment. People with disabilities can and want to contribute actively and participate in their community and society. Their full participation depends on the removal of these barriers (ILO, 2015).

A step in this direction begins with challenging the myths that people with disabilities are incapable and helpless. This requires replacing images that depict persons with disabilities as sad, passive and dependent with those showing them with dignity and pride, as capable and independent individuals who can contribute towards changes in all spheres of life (ILO, 2015).

The issues and topics below are intended to provide ideas for reporting stories on disability. They are also instrumental in the successful promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities and their full inclusion in society where they can achieve financial and economic independence (ILO, 2015).

Laws and Policies

Journalists can play an important role in promoting improvements in national policies and programmes and making information about vital services as it concerns disability available as widely as possible. In doing so, journalists help raise the visibility of a segment of the population that is largely ignored, while increasing awareness among persons with disabilities about services and opportunities. In addition, awareness of relevant laws and policies on disability, including key international Conventions and standards, provides a foundation for journalists to more effectively advocate for the protection of the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

Stop and Consider: Which laws and policies in your country help to promote opportunities for people with disabilities? How are these laws being enforced, or what strategies are in place to support their implementation? How aware of these laws are employers, trade unions, businesses, or representatives of civil society? These are some areas that you as a journalist may wish to explore in your reporting (ILO, 2015).

Public perception and Deep-rooted Beliefs

Stigma and discrimination are among the main barriers that keep a majority of persons with disabilities living in poverty, dependence and social exclusion. A human rights-based approach to disability regards limitations imposed on persons with disabilities by the social and the physical environments as violations of their basic human rights. However, these rights are often violated due to ignorance and lack of information. 

In some societies, viewing disability as a “curse” is not uncommon. Such deep-rooted beliefs, ignorance and fear influence the low expectations of people with disabilities and their families about their achievement, limiting their skills attainment and independence. The people that are skilled and able to perform certain types of jobs still face the same scepticism from potential employers. These factors contribute to people with disabilities living below the poverty level. 

The media has the power to dispel these deep-rooted beliefs and myths surrounding disability and persons with disabilities. They can also raise awareness among both persons with disabilities and the rest of the public about the rights of people with disabilities to work and employment.

Stop and Consider: How often are stigma and discrimination against people with disabilities addressed in mainstream or inclusive reporting? Do you include persons with disabilities in your reporting stories? Showing people with disabilities living in society, participating in every facet of life – at home, school, at work, shopping, relaxing with friends at a coffee bar, or simply being part of the population can help break down barriers and promote inclusion. How often do you showcase successful individuals with disabilities at work, as providers of services or as sources of information on various topics of concern to society? (ILO, 2015).

Accessibility

Good accessibility benefits everyone. Yet, without being able to access facilities and 

services found in the community – building, roads, transportation and other indoor and outdoor facilities, including schools, medical facilities and workplaces – persons with disabilities will never be fully included. Accessibility also extends to information and communication and includes such things as audio signals found at pedestrian crossings, presentation of information (e.g. Braille), signage for finding one’s way, among others. 

Stop and Consider: Is there existing legislation in your country to encourage or help promote independent living and a more accessible environment? Reporting stories offering examples of barriers present in the physical environment or good practice on accessibility are a key to promoting societies that include everyone (ILO, 2015).

Access to Education and Skills Development

Equal access to education, skills training and the workplace is a key factor in promoting the economic empowerment of people with disabilities and improving their living standards. It is also a fundamental principle of cohesive societies. Achieving broad access to mainstream or inclusive education and training and in using training to secure better opportunities for employment requires breaking down barriers that exclude people with disabilities.

Stop and Consider: What opportunities exist in your community for people with disabilities to take part in skills training alongside people without disabilities? Are there good examples of businesses or employers who have hired workers with disabilities to create an inclusive workplace? Or, consider a story in which an individual with a disability lacks access to basic services, taking into account such factors as their frustration and disappointment, and what happens to them as they grow older. Or, think about a feature story on a disabled jobseeker and how they go about finding work (ILO, 2015).

Women with Disabilities

People with disabilities face many obstacles in their struggle for equality. Although men and women are subject to discrimination because of their impairments, women are at a further disadvantage because of the combined discrimination based on sex and disability. They face significantly more difficulties - in both public and private spheres - in attaining access to adequate housing, health, education, vocational training and employment. They also experience inequality in hiring, promotion rates and equal pay for equal work or work of equal value, access to training and retraining, credit and other productive resources, and rarely participate in economic decision-making (O’Riley, A. 2007). 

Stop and Consider: Are there examples of women with disabilities in your community who serve as role models for other women and girls like them? Consider stories that show women with disabilities claiming their identities and standing up for their rights to work, to basic services (health, education) and fair treatment. Look for opportunities to showcase these women at work or in their community and allow them to talk about a range of topics - “double discrimination” based on sex and disability; what work means to them and their families; how they use the income generated from work, among other issues (ILO, 2015).

TIPS ON PROMOTING THE POSITIVE

PORTRAYAL OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

It is very important that both journalists and communications professionals connect disability issues with human dignity and rights. Here are some tips for promoting the positive portrayal of persons with disabilities:

Support the human rights-based approach: As noted previously, there has been a dramatic shift toward a human rights approach to persons with disabilities. This approach is linked to the social model in that it recognizes that a transformation within society is needed to ensure equality and justice for all. Human rights are the fundamental principles through which every individual can gain justice and equality. Ultimately, the human rights-based approach aims to empower persons with disabilities, and to ensure their active participation in social, economic, political and cultural life. Changes are needed in society to ensure this, starting by changing perceptions. 

Focus on the person, not the impairment: In describing a person with a disability, focus on the individual and not on their particular functional or physical limitations. For example, say people with disabilities instead of the disabled. Given editorial pressure to save space or accommodate design layouts, it is not always possible to put people first. However, always strive to keep your portrayal positive and accurate: for example, a wheelchair/crutches user or person with mobility impairment instead of crippled, a person with hearing impairment instead of deaf, a person with visual impairment instead of blind person. These are terminologies for use of respectful language when referring to people with disabilities.

Emphasize ability, not the disability (unless it is critical to the story): For example, Mr. Jones uses a wheelchair, walks with crutches instead of Mr. Jones is wheelchair-bound, is differently-abled. Avoid emotional words such as “unfortunate”, “pitiful”. Avoid sad music or melodramatic introductions when reporting on disability. Never refer to individuals with disabilities as the disabled.

Show persons with disabilities as active in society: Portraying people with disabilities as active members of society and not as passive and dependent helps to break down barriers and opens up opportunities. 

Allow people with disabilities to speak for themselves: Experience shows that when a person with disability speaks with confidence and authority about a particular situation, non-disabled audiences are more likely to believe that people with disabilities are knowledgeable.

Don’t overemphasize disabled ‘heroes’: Even though the public may admire ‘superheroes’, portraying people with disabilities as superstars raises unrealistic expectations that all people with disabilities should achieve this level (ILO, 2015).

RECOMMENDATIONS 

What can the media do to support reporting on disability and promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in all spheres of society? Here are some recommendations:

• Raise awareness of the challenges facing people with disabilities and issues surrounding disability, and factors that contribute to the exclusion and stigmatization of people with disabilities.

• Bring discussion of disability into the public arena to challenge the idea of it as a taboo subject.

• Feature examples of people with disabilities as providers of expertise, services, assistance and as contributors of financial support to their families and communities. 

• Promote the message that people with disabilities are present in every community across the globe. They have the same range of emotions, interests, talents, skills and behaviour as the rest of the population and should be portrayed as having the same complexity of personality and experience as other people of similar age and situation (ILO, 2015).

REFERENCES

Buckup, S. (2009). The price of exclusion: The economic consequences of excluding people with disabilities from the world of work, Employment Working Paper No. 43, International Labour Organization, Geneva.

Inclusion International (2007). “The Human Rights of Adults with Learning Disabilities”, Report submitted to The Joint Committee on Human Rights Committee Office, House of Commons, 24 May 2007, p. 2.

International Labour Organization (ILO) (2012). Social Protection Floors Recommendation, No. 202. International Labour Office, Geneva, http://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=NORMLEXPUB:12100:0::NO:12100:P12100_INSTRUMENT_ID:3065524:NO. [accessed on 20.04.15].

International Labour Organisation (ILO) (2015). Reporting on Disability: Guidelines for the Media. Geneva: ILO press.

Mitra et al. (2011). Disability and Poverty in Developing Countries: A snapshot from the World Health Survey. SP Discussion Paper, World Bank.

O’Riley, A. (2007). The right to decent work of persons with disabilities, International Labour Organization, Geneva.

WHO and World Bank (2011). World Report on Disability, WHO Press, Geneva.