As we step into the new year, the DRG fellows continued to spearhead initiatives that transcend boundaries and elevate the discourse on disability rights in the context of risk and humanitarian emergencies. The first quarter of 2023 showcased their commitment and meaningful contributions through impactful engagements.
The DRG Fellows were involved in the task of reviewing and refining the Bridge CRPD-SDGs Article 11 curriculum. This comprehensive effort extended to related materials such as PowerPoint presentations, case studies, and group exercises. A collaborative approach involving IDA secretariat and Working Group 6 members ensured a holistic review, incorporating feedback on inclusion and risk in humanitarian emergencies. This hands-on engagement empowered fellows to apply their gained knowledge, develop training curricula, and enhance their facilitation skills for the upcoming Bridge CRPD-SDGs Module 3 training.
The DRG fellows continued to showcase a strong commitment to capacity-building initiatives. Juan Cobenas from Argentina emerged as a key contributor, developing a policy paper with RIADIS support, aiding Argentinian OPDs in crafting an alternative report for the CRPD committee, and presenting Argentina's status at the 28th CRPD committee session. George Khoury from Lebanon showcased the risks and challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the Arab world in a training organized by the Arab Organization of People with Disabilities (AOPD).
Jigjid “Duya” Dulamsuren from Mongolia delved into researching the status of women with disabilities in Mongolia and facilitated the Bangladesh Bridge CRPD-SDGs Module 2 training. Rokiatou “Rose” Diakite from Mali collaborated with humanitarian actors for online training on "disaster situations" and coordinated with Down Syndrome International for self-advocacy interventions at the World Disability Summit.
Mauot Louis Allier Anyang of South Sudan played a pivotal role in supporting a local organization to submit a position paper on Article 11, aligning with South Sudan's commitment to the UNCRPD. Emilio Neas from Haiti conducted an earthquake study, offered recommendations to the Haitian state on Article 11, and organized training on OPD contingency planning. Ulamila Kacilala from Fiji contributed to the organization of the 7th Pacific Regional Conference on Disability and is preparing for the Bridge CRPD-SDGs Module 3 Article 11 training in Asia.
All DRG fellows developed learning briefs on thematic topics, relating it to situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies. Technical sessions guided them in shaping these briefs, prompting collaboration with national OPDs and humanitarian agencies for specific insights.
