OPD leadership and the right to participate in global climate processes - recognising a climate constituency for persons with disabilities

Persons with disabilities have a right to shape the decisions that determine our climate future.

IDA’s new paper, OPD-centred climate leadership, makes the legal case for formally recognising a constituency of organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) within the UN climate process. Drawing on the CRPD, General Comment No. 7 and relevant UN decisions, it explains why equal participation requires a permanent, independent voice through organisations that persons with disabilities lead and control.

The paper sets out practical steps for recognition, accessibility and funding, alongside proposed language for Parties to adopt. Its call is clear: give OPDs equal standing to influence climate negotiations, bring their expertise to climate action and hold decision-makers accountable

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