New UN convention welcomed

The Kummissjoni Nazzjonali Persuni b'Diżabilità (KNPD) has welcomed the entry into force on May 3 of the United Nations Convention on Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The new convention is the first human rights document that recognises the social, civil, economic and political rights of disabled people around the world and the obligation of world governments to ensure equality for disabled citizens. It could only become legally binding after 20 member states had ratified it.

KNPD said that although Malta was one of the first to sign the convention and its optional protocol, in order for this instrument to be legally binding, Malta still needs to ratify it. This step was proposed in the PN electoral manifesto.

KNPD firmly believes that ratification would further entrench the many positive steps already taken on a national level to ensure that disabled Maltese people enjoy a future where their human rights, as well as their civil rights, are respected and safeguarded.

It said the celebration of diversity affirmed by the new UN convention will also create a better and more inclusive society.