News in Brief

U.S. Signs the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) requires governments to prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities and support their dignity, autonomy, and full participation in society. The United States added itself to the list of signatories to the convention on 30 July 2009. This was the first international human rights treaty signed by the U.S. in nearly a decade. This signature, which must now be followed by ratification, has been hailed as a real victory for disability rights advocates.

The CRPD entered into force on 3 May 2008 and has now 142 signatories and 64 ratifications. It is the most detailed and comprehensive international instrument for the respect and enforcement of the human rights of persons with disabilities. Along with the Mine Ban Treaty and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, it is a powerful tool to advocate for the rights of mine and cluster munitions survivors.

Cambodia Passes New Disability Law

On 9 July 2009, the Cambodian legislation on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was signed by the King of Cambodia. This signature was the final step in passing the law, which aims at ensuring the rights of persons with disabilities to access opportunities for employment, healthcare and education. “This is a great step in the right direction,” said Sr. Denise Coghlan, ICBL Management Committee member and representative of the Cambodia Campaign to Ban Landmines.

“The government legislates for and recognizes the rights of all persons with disabilities, including those who lost legs and arms and eyes from mines and cluster bombs. To make 2009 even more memorable for survivors, Cambodia must now sign and ratify the Convention on Cluster Munitions. Cambodia has been such an important leader in the movement against these weapons of war, we want to see its name among the first ratifications,” she added.