The World Network of Users and Survivors of Psychiatry (WNUSP) convened a key board meeting on 23 August 2024 to discuss important developments and strategic plans. During the meeting, Dr. Daniel Mwesigwa Iga was confirmed as the Acting Chair, following the recent passing of key leaders. The board emphasized the need for unity, resilience, and collaboration as they work toward revitalizing the network.
Key highlights from the meeting include:
- Leadership : Daniel Mwesigwa was nominated and confirmed as the Acting Chair of WNUSP until the next General Assembly.
- Strategic planning: The board emphasized the need to develop a strategic plan for the next five years, focusing on strengthening the organization’s global presence.
- Regional initiatives: Plans were discussed for organizing a new WNUSP Asia-Pacific group, with ongoing coordination to enhance regional representation.
- IDA support: The meeting highlighted ongoing support from the International Disability Alliance (IDA), with a focus on bolstering WNUSP’s advocacy efforts and preparing for the upcoming General Assembly.
Ongoing Advocacy Activities
WNUSP remains actively engaged in key advocacy initiatives that represent the interests of persons with psychosocial disabilities. Current activities include:
Monitoring CRPD Developments: The WNUSP closely monitors the implementation and progress of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), ensuring that issues relevant to persons with psychosocial disabilities are addressed, including the implementation of the CRPD Guidelines on Deinstitutionaliation.
Feedback on OPCAT General Comment No. 1: WNUSP takes note of the positive elements of the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) General Comment No. 1, particularly concerning the rights of persons with psychosocial disabilities in relation to detention and involuntary treatment.
WHO Mental Health Policy & Strategic Action Plan: WNUSP will give feedback on the World Health Organization’s Guidance for Mental Health Policy and Strategic Action Plan, offering perspectives from a global representative organization of persons with disabilities to shape global mental health strategies, focusing on community-based and peer-to-peer support services, ensuring the right to physical and mental integrity, and eliminating all coercive laws and practices.
Washington Group Meeting on Data Collection: WNUSP will attend the upcoming online meeting of the Washington Group, contributing expertise and the views of persons with psychosocial disabilities to ensure appropriatee representation in global statistics.
Engagement with 2025 UNGA NCDs Meeting: WNUSP is considering how best to engage and convey views at the Fourth High-level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which will have a specific focus on mental health. It is essential that CRPD principles, including respect and understanding of psychosocial diversity are considered in this process. And the event presents a significant opportunity to influence international policy from a CRPD perspective.
These activities are part of WNUSP’s ongoing commitment to advancing the rights of persons with psychosocial disabilities worldwide. The board is determined to ensure that the network remains a strong and united voice on the global stage.