In recent years, the International Disability Alliance (IDA) has increased its strategic focus on enhancing inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in climate action. IDA has obtained provisional observance status to participate in the 26th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26), and is currently preparing its delegation to join the conference in Glasgow.
Today, IDA is publishing a position paper summarising messages and recommendations for States, international governmental and non-governmental organisations working in global action against climate change as well as donors. This document highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change and the possible adverse impacts of climate mitigation and adaptation activities on persons with disabilities. It also proposes measures to ensure the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in climate-related decision-making.
This document was first drafted by the Disability Inclusive Climate Action Research Program, acting under the Center for Human Rights and Legal Pluralism, McGill University, in collaboration with a group of civil society organisations including organisations of persons with disabilities. The document was then reviewed by the Disability Inclusive Climate Action Working Group established under Global Action on Disability (GLAD Network) and endorsed by the International Disability Alliance.
Click here to download this paper.