July 10, 2016 - 4:00am

Colin Allen introducing MGoS HLPF prep meeting

Civil society gathered in New York to prepare for the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in 2016  - the follow up and Review platform of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, including fifteen representatives and advocates from organisations of persons with disabilities from Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Lebanon, the Philippines, Uganda and the United Kingdom.

IDA's Chair, Colin Allen, introduced the meeting of Major Groups and other Stakeholders, as well as facilitated a workshop on participation at the HLPF, with Yetnebersh Nigussie, from Light for the World, Ethiopia. Several other disability advocates made interventions and raised issues around accesibility during the HLPF sessions, and were supported by members of wider civil society.

Colin Allen closed the meeting, calling on all of civil society to "build and grow our partnerships. Together we can, and we must, ensure that we are all included, and set the strongest precedent for inclusion for the next 15 years and beyond."