Disability Data Advocacy Workshop for OPDs

By IDA

- October 19, 2023

In a world that strives for inclusivity and equity, the absence of comprehensive data on persons with disabilities perpetuates inequalities and marginalization. It is vital to empower organizations and individuals to advocate for better disability data, which is the main goal of the Disability Data Advocacy Workshop for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), which was prepared by CBM Global’s Inclusion Advisory Group in partnership with UNFPA Asia and the Pacific Regional Office, the Stakeholder Group of Persons with Disabilities for Sustainable Development, the International Disability Alliance, Centre for Inclusive Policy and various regional and national OPDs, including the Pacific Disability Forum.

Why is this workshop needed? The absence of sufficient data on persons with disabilities perpetuates disparities and marginalization. Data serves as the key to identifying gaps and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities while it also enables the creation and modification of policies, programs, and investments that are not only inclusive but also specifically tailored to address the needs and priorities of this vital demographic.

Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) play a pivotal role. Their contributions are twofold:

Use and Development of Data for Evidence-Based Advocacy: OPDs harness data to underpin their advocacy efforts with hard evidence. This allows them to effectively push for their priorities and needs, making their advocacy evidence-based and impactful.

Advocating for Improved Disability Data: OPDs advocate for better disability data at various levels of governance. This is vital for informing policies, directing investments, and ensuring accountability for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

The Disability Data Advocacy Workshop is designed to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills to navigate the intricacies of disability data advocacy. The workshop emphasizes key messages that enable participants to understand best practices for disability data and related advocacy messages at different levels. The workshop materials are thoughtfully designed to introduce the fundamental concepts and skills needed to engage with data effectively. Participants are not required to have prior experience with data; however, recommended preparation materials are available to facilitate optimal learning and application during the workshop.

This workshop is a critical step towards ensuring that persons with disabilities are represented, their needs addressed, and their voices heard through the power of data-driven advocacy.

Find below the downloadable resources for this workshop in English and Spanish.