National and Regional Strategic Plans on Disability

Source: G3ict: The Global Initiative for Inclusive ICTs

Notes:

a. The compilation only includes comprehensive national and regional plans and strategies. Sectoral plans (i.e. accessibility plans, employment strategies, etc) and local plans are beyond the scope of the compilation and have not been included.

b. Websites last accessed on November 9, 2022.

1. Afghanistan

Afghanistan National Disability Action Plan 2008-2011 (ANDAP) (PDF)

The ANDAP includes an overview of objectives and actions for the period 2008 to 2011. The Strategy has been tailor-made to fit the peculiar situation of Afghanistan and the challenges faced by the disability sector in the country, including: the lack of trained personnel and the time needed to provide adequate training; the lack of financial resources; and the volatile security situation in parts of the country. The ANDAP covers the six key elements of war victim assistance and two additional areas, community based rehabilitation and inclusive education, which have been identified as requiring more focused attention in the Afghan context.

2. African Union

Continental Plan of Action for the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities 1999-2009 (PDF)

The Plan of Action is the outcome of the Pan-African Conference on the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities which was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in February, 2002. The Plan of Action is primarily meant to serve as a guideline to Member States in the formulation of their national programs on disability issues as well as in putting in place mechanisms for the implementation of the Decade’s objectives. Originally conceived for the decade 1999 – 2009, the Plan has been extended until 2019.

3. Albania

National Strategy on People with Disabilities (2006)

The Strategy on People with Disabilities is a long-term scheme of measures which aims to improve the lives of people with disabilities. It reflects the international principles of equality, non-discrimination, participation and self-determination of people with disabilities and it is aimed at promoting their full inclusion in society. The present version also contains the Government Action Plan for the year 2006. The creation of the strategy has been supported by the OSCE Presence in Albania.

4. Armenia

National Strategy for Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Armenia for 2006-2015[1]

5. Australia

National Disability Strategy 2010 – 2020

The National Disability Strategy sets forth a ten year national plan for improving life for Australians with disabilities, their families and caregivers. It sets out six priority areas for action and it represents a commitment by all levels of government, industry and the community to a unified, national approach to policy and program development. This new approach will assist in addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities, both now and into the future.

6. Bangladesh

Five-year National Action Plan on Disability (2006)[2]

7. Bhutan

Tenth Five Year Plan for national development (2008)

The plan incorporates the concerns of people with disabilities[3]

8. Bolivia

National Plan of Equality and Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disability – 2006 (PDF)

The Plan provides basic guidelines for the various state and social actors at the national, departmental and municipal level. Guidelines are meant to help them contribute in a responsible way to the creation of a more just, inclusive and humane society for people with disabilities, where equitable access to services is ensured.

9. (Federation of) Bosnia and Herzegovina

Strategy for advancement of rights and status of persons with disabilities in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2016-2021)

On the road towards the integration in the European Union, Bosnia and Herzegovina are working to meet European standards, in particular in the field of protection and support to society’s most vulnerable groups, such as persons with disabilities.

This strategy is based on the areas of action listed in the Council of Europe Action Plan and aims to promote the rights and the full participation of persons with disabilities in the society.

10. Brazil

Living without Limits Plan (2011 – 2014)

The plan comprehends policies in key areas such as education, health, citizenship and accessibility. The aim is to promote social inclusion and independent living of disabled people by eliminating barriers and allowing better access to goods and services.[4]

The plan foresees an investment of 1.8 billion Reals (1.01 billion U.S. dollars) to adapt public schools and universities to disabled students, and hire more sign language teachers and distribute specially adapted school buses to ensure that disabled students can go to school.[5]

11. Bulgaria

National Strategy for Equal Opportunities for Disabled People 2008-2015

The strategy aims to implement the national policy on disability and it is focused on improving the quality of life of people with disabilities, providing them with equal opportunities and fostering their full and active participation in all spheres of public life. In order to achieve these objectives, the strategy outlines the specific steps that need to be implemented to remove all barriers (psychological, educational, social, cultural, professional, financial and architectural) preventing the full integration of persons with disabilities into society. Document only available in Bulgarian.

12. Cambodia

National Plan of Action for Persons with Disabilities including Landmine/ERW3 Survivors 2009 – 2011 (PDF)

This plan is intended as an important contribution to promote efforts to address the rights and needs of persons with disabilities, including landmine and other ERW survivors, their families and affected communities in the country. The Plan of Action has been a collaborative effort, developed under the leadership of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veteran and Youth Rehabilitation and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority in partnership with DAC.

13. China

5th National Five Year Work Program for PWDs (2005-2010)

The plan was approved during the period of renovation works prior to the Olympic and Paralympic games of Beijing. Among the main objectives of the plan there was not only the total accessibility of the games and of their environment, but also the building of 100 barrier free model cities in China.

14. Colombia

National Plan of Care for People with Disabilities 1999 – 2002

The main objectives of the plan are improving the quality of life of people with disabilities in Colombia and expanding and improving available services. The extension and consolidation of local and social support networks are also addressed in order to foster the establishment of a culture based on the respect of the fundamental rights.[6]

15. Cuba

III National Plan of Action for Persons with Disabilities 2006 – 2010 (PDF)

This National Plan is based on three basic principles: universality of resources, equalization of life standards and democratization. It is organized around 5 areas of interventions (Health, Education, Inclusion in the economic sphere, Inclusion in the community). For each area relative legislation and background are recalled, and specific objectives, main programmes to implement and guidelines are listed.

16. Cook Islands

Cook Islands National Policy on Disability & National Action Plan 2008 – 2012

The document undertakes and completes a stocktake of the current situation regarding persons with disabilities and the effectiveness of the country policy in addressing their needs. Based on the findings of the review, it then identifies possible changes and directions for the future and makes a list of practical recommendations for a revised policy for the period 2008-2012.

17. Council of Europe

Council of Europe Disability Action Plan 2006-2015

Following the Malaga Declaration on People with Disabilities, the Council of Europe developed a Disability Action Plan in order to foster the promotion of Human Rights and to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities in Europe. The document is meant to be a practical tool to elaborate and implement viable disability strategies aimed at achieving inclusion and the mainstreaming of disability in member state policies.

18. Croatia

National Strategy for Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities 2007 – 2015

The strategy has the goal of advancing and strengthening the protection of persons and children with disabilities. Its main task is to harmonize all action policies in the area of protection of persons with disabilities with the standards achieved at the global level, and to make all areas of life and all activities accessible to persons with disabilities. Based on the principles of non- discrimination and of interdependence and indivisibility of all human rights, the strategy highlights and stresses the importance of effective cooperation with DPOs in order to foster the mainstream and inclusion of disability.

19. Czech Republic

National Plan for the Creation of Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities 2010–2014 (PDF)

Czech Republic has been elaborating National Plans on disability since 1992. The implementation of the Disability National Plans has discernibly improved the Government’s approach to disabled persons, which has been positively reflected in many areas that are important in preserving the quality of life and dignity of this group of people and help them integrate into society. The National Plan is divided into separate chapters corresponding to the various articles of the Convention. Each chapter contains a brief description of the current status and goals to be achieved through action, and a set of measures along with a specification of the ministry responsible for their implementation.

20. Denmark

Action Plan on Disability 2003

The action plan contains overall targets concerning disabled people and suggestions for a number of focus areas.[7]

Action Plans “IT for us all” and “Disability is no disability!”

Both plans are aimed at improving disabled people’s possibilities of using the options inherent in IT.[8]

21. Dominican Republic

National Plan of Action for the Decade of Persons with Disabilities[9]

22. Ecuador

Second National Disability Plan of Ecuador

This second plan is a technical instrument aimed at promoting the prevention of disability and improving the life of people with disabilities. Its main objectives are the mitigation of the risk factors for disability, the promotion of integration, the achievement of equal opportunities and the protection of the rights of people with disabilities.

23. El Salvador

Plan of Action of the National Politic of Equalization of Opportunities for Persons withDisability – 2002[10]

24. Ethiopia

National Plan of Action for Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities 2010 – 2020

The document has been designed in line with the provisions of the CRPD. Once finalized (the document has been finalized in 2011 and will be presented to the Council of Ministers for endorsement) all sectors of the economy – health, education, labour – will have a role to play in its implementation, promoting a better standard of living and the equal rights and full participation of disabled persons in society.[11]

25. European Union

European Disability Strategy 2010 – 2020 (PDF)

The strategy outlines how the EU and national governments can empower people with disabilities so that they can enjoy their rights. Specific measures over the next decade range from the study on mutual recognition of national disability cards, the promotion of standardisation to a more targeted use of public procurement and state aid rules. Its main actions are aimed at fostering accessibility, participation into the community and cooperation among member states in the field of disability.

26. Fiji Islands

Disability Action Plan (2002)

The Fiji Islands Disability Action Plan has as a primary goal the promotion of an inclusive, barrier- free and rights-based society for people with disabilities. Based on the principle that people with disabilities have the right to participate in every aspect of economic, social, cultural and political life without discrimination, the action plan is mainly focused on the following priority areas: education, access to public places and places of worship, provision of housing, access to information and communication, adequate provision of social security, provision of adequate and appropriate health care, access to employment, sports and recreation and support services.

27. Finland

Finland’s Disability Policy Programme 2010–2015 (PDF)

This strategy outlines the concrete measures required to implement the government’s policy decisions on disability during the period 2010–2015. The societal developments to achieve sustainable and accountable disability policy are also outlined. The document applies to all of Finnish Ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Document available only in Finnish. Executive summary in English.

28. Georgia

Action Plan 2010-2012 on Social Integration of Persons with Disabilities

The plan addresses the following main objectives: improve the ability of the system to determine disabilities; promote the public awareness of disabilities and improve the accessibility to information; improve the accessibility of public buildings and transportation systems; further improve and implement the unified strategic plan of education of children and adults with disabilities; provide specialized system of vocational education and training and develop professional skills using alternative methods; promote higher education; improving the health care system and the state welfare programs.[12]

29. Germany

National Plan of Action of the Federal Government for the implementation of the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2011 – 2021

Conceived as a tool for the government to foster the implementation of the CRPD and as an “engine for change”, this action plan is based on the principle of inclusion. As the idea of inclusion is a central guiding principle of the Convention, the plan aims to change German culture and society and to render them more inclusive. The plan covers a 10-year period and sets forth a list of measures to close existing gaps between legislation and practice and to facilitate the active participation of people with disabilities in society. Document only available in German.

30. Guatemala

Plan of Action on Disability

The plan of action was approved through a national law (Decree number 16-2008) together with the policy on disability it is meant to implement. It consists in a series of clear and specific actions that have to be implemented by public institutions, private organizations and civil society organizations. Both the policy and the plan of action are available only in Spanish.

31. Guyana

National Commission on Disability Strategic Plan 2008-2011

The plan seeks to prevent and reduce disabilities and premature deaths from violence and injuries, and to reduce physical disabilities and hearing impairments.[13]

32. Haiti

Five year National Plan for the Integration of People with Disabilities (2010)[14]

33. Hungary

National Program of Disability Affairs 2007-2013

The program is based on the fact that people with disabilities have the same rights and responsibilities as any other citizens as they are equal members of society and of the local community. Based on the principle of non discrimination and on the protection of human rights, the program is focused not only on persons with disabilities but also on their families as it recognizes that “the chances of social integration of people with disabilities and especially the quality of their lives are determined by the general social situation of their families”

34. Indonesia

Indonesia National Plan of Action (INPOA) of Disabled People 2004-2013[15]

The plan, which is based on the Biwako Millennium Framework (BMF),[16] aims to implement measures so that persons with disabilities can participate in and benefit from the development process.[17]

35. Ireland

Towards 2016 Strategic Document – National Disability Strategy (2004)

The Strategy, launched in 2004, builds on existing policy and legislation. Its key parts are: the Disability Act 2005; the Education for Persons with Special Needs Act 2004; the Citizens Information Act 2007. The Strategy also includes six sectoral plans, which are statutory action plans in key government departments.

NDA (National Disability Authority) Strategic Plan 2010 – 2012 (PDF)

The NDA’s Strategic Plan is the continued implementation of the National Disability Strategy launched in 2004. Its main priorities are the support of the implementation and the monitoring of the impact of the National Disability Strategy, while promoting the independence and the inclusion of people with disabilities.

36. Jamaica

Vision 2030 Jamaica – National Development Plan. Persons with Disabilities Sector Plan 2009 – 2030 (PDF)

The Persons with Disabilities Sector Plan presents a comprehensive, yet concise, overview of the sector. The Plan is presented in three sections. The first, the Strategic Plan, gives a broad outline of the general directions for development. It includes a Vision, Goals, Outcomes, Indicators and Targets. The next section, the actual Action Plan, builds on this framework down to the Action level. The third section identifies some priority strategies and actions to be implemented in the short term (within 3 years). A Monitoring and Evaluation Matrix (including indicators) is also presented here. The Plan recognizes the need to address the barriers that hinder persons with disabilities from achieving their full potential, while promoting personal responsibility among PWDs.

37. Japan

Basic Programme for Persons with Disabilities 2003 – 2012

This Basic Programme is based on the concept of “rehabilitation and normalization” and it contains guide principles providing the basic directions of measures for persons with disabilities to be implemented in ten years, from fiscal year of 2003 through 2012, for the purpose of further promoting social integration and participation of persons with disabilities.

38. Jordan

The National Disability Strategy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan 2007 – 2009 / 2010 – 2015

This two phase strategy (Phase I: 2007-2009 and Phase II: 2010- 2015) aims to reduce the prevalence of disability in a society where persons with disabilities enjoy a decent and sustainable life, allowing them full participation, fairness and respect, and which strives towards diminishing the cost of disability. Its main objectives are: a decline in the occurrence of disability; the achievement of greater equity; an increased empowerment for persons with disabilities and an improved integration of people with disabilities in the life of their community.

39. Kazakhstan

National Action Plan to Secure the Rights and Improve the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities (2012 – 2018)

The plan has been developed in cooperation with NGOs and with the support of the National Coordination Council on the Social Protection Issues of Persons with Disabilities. Its main objectives are: improving the accessibility of the priority types of facilities and services for persons with disabilities, as well as of work and employment facilities; improving medical and social expertise; creating the condition for an inclusive education; increasing the efficiency of rehabilitation services.[18]

40. Kenya

National Disability Plan of Action – 2004

This Plan aims to improve and promote participation, equality and empowerment of people with disabilities in Kenya. It proposes to draft a disability policy aiming at achieving overall integration of persons with disabilities into the national development process without any discrimination. The Plan also envisages the dissemination of a simplified version of the Persons with Disabilities Act and the development of a strategy to monitor it; the dissemination of the National Plan of Action at national and grassroots levels and the formulation of district action plans.[19]

41. Korea (Republic of)

Third Five-Year-Plan for Policy Development for Persons with Disabilities 2008-2012

The Five-Year Disability Policy Development Plan is established every five year by Ministries under the National Coordination Committee on Disability chaired by the Prime Minister. The policy objectives of the third five-year plan are: a) advancement of disability welfare regime, b) promotion of disability education and culture, c) expansion of economic activities of persons with disabilities and d) promotion of social participation of persons with disabilities.[20]

42. Kosovo

National Disability Action Plan for the Republic of Kosovo 2009-2011 (PDF)

This strategic document is an important tool in the efforts of the Government of the Republic of Kosovo to create a more effective, sustainable and coordinated policy in the field of the rights of people with disabilities. Elaborated with the help and support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (General Directorate for Development Cooperation) and in collaboration with local people with disabilities, the plan fulfills the state obligations that Kosovo has in respecting the International Conventions for Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which are among the pre-conditions for Kosovo to move forward in the process of European integration.

43. Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Action Plan of the National Strategy for People with Disability in Lao PDR (2000)

The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, in cooperation with the UNDP, involved many local and international bodies in the development of a national strategy for people with disabilities in Laos. The priority Action Plan that followed included:

  • Creation of a comprehensive medical system that included rehabilitation;
  • Linkage of early rehabilitation with education;
  • Implementation of vocational rehabilitation programs;
  • Reintegration into society (through increasing community sensitization and access to information and transportation).[21]

44. Latvia

UNCRPD Implementation Action Plan 2010-2012

This Action plan envisages initial steps for promoting the implementation of the UNCRPD at the national level. One of the tasks of the Action plan is to elaborate the UNCRPD implementation programme for 2013-2019, which will be a comprehensive strategy to reach the UNCRPD objectives.[22]

45. Lebanon

2001-2002 National Plan of Action for the Rights of Disabled Persons of Lebanon[23]

46. Lithuania

National Program on Social Integration for People with Disabilities 2003-2012

The program aims to achieve the equalization of opportunities for social integration of people with disabilities and plans activities that correspond to the international and national policy aims and obligations. The principles for planning the state policy on social integration of people with disabilities are: continuity of means of rehabilitation; equal opportunities, accessibility, compensation for disability, decentralization, prevention of discrimination and participation of people with disabilities.[24]

47. Macedonia

National Strategy on Achieving Equal Rights for the Persons with Disabilities in the Republic of Macedonia (2010 – 2018) (DOC)

The strategy reflects the European and national legislation as well as the Standard Rules for Equalisation of the Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. It is based upon a thorough situation analysis and it points out the need of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia to make appropriate decisions concerning the protection, education, rehabilitation, vocational training and employment of persons with disabilities.

48. Malawi

Strategic Plan on Disability (2004 – 2007) (PDF)

The Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Social Development and Persons with Disabilities 2004-2007 is a comprehensive framework, which was aimed to guide the direction of the ministry to adapt to change and offer a dynamic and conducive environment in which persons with disabilities can be accommodated to fully participate in national development. It is a statement of disability-related strategic issues, and of the ministry’s goals, objectives, strategies and desired outcomes or impact of its activities.

49. Malaysia

National Action Plan for Disabled Persons 2007-2012[26]

50. Mali

African Decade of People with Disability 1999-2009 – Mali National Action Plan

The plan has been elaborated to translate the engagements of the African Decade at the national level. The main objectives of the plan are the following: improve the living conditions of disabled people through a participative approach; promote the rights of people with disabilities and their full participation in the life of society through the equalization of opportunities; promote the integration of disability issues in development programs at a local, regional, national and international level.[27]

51. Mauritius

National Policy Paper and Action Plan on Disability (2007)[28]

52. Mexico

National Programme for the Development of Persons with Disabilities 2009 – 2012

This strategic document includes short and long term measures aimed at fostering the inclusion of people with disabilities. The programme is organized in 5 chapters: chapter 1 features an overview of the international and national background; chapter 2 focuses on the legal and operational aspects of the action plan; chapter 3 analyses the situation of people with disabilities in Mexico; in chapter 4 the mission, vision and objective of the programme are described; lastly, chapter 5 contains a detailed list of the actions to be implemented. The document is only available in Spanish.

53. Micronesia (Federal States of)

National Policy on Disability and Implementation Plan[29]

54. Moldova

Action Plan of the Government of the Republic of Moldova’s Strategy on the Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, 2010 – 2013

The Strategy and the Action Plan followed the Moldovan government’s ratification of the CRPD. Together with the harmonization of the national legislation with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and other relevant international legislation, the strategy and action plan promote a reform of the mechanism of determination of disability, in the aim to adopt a system based on the WHO Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) criteria and other relevant international standards and practices.[30]

55. Myanmar

Myanmar National Plan of Action for Persons with Disabilities 2010 – 2012

This Plan of Action contains a nationwide focus on persons with disabilities. Its main goals are to increase mobility, accessibility and opportunities for persons with disabilities in order to render them able to enjoy equal rights and to actively contribute to the economic and social development of the state as “responsible citizens”. A part of the strategy is dedicated to inclusive disaster prevention and preparedness.

56. Mongolia[31]

National program for supporting disabled people (2006)

Sub program for supporting the participation of disabled children (2006)

57. Montenegro

Strategy for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities in Montenegro (2008 – 2016)

The Strategy envisages measures and activities to be undertaken during the period from 2008 to 2016, in order to change the situation of persons with disability in Montenegro in accordance with the European standards and the standards prescribed by the UN CRPD.

The strategy comprises the following areas: health care, social protection and pension, disability insurance, field of education, professional training and employment, accessibility, culture, sport and recreation, as well as the field related to the position of disabled people’s organizations in civil society. Action plans are elaborated on a two year basis in order to foster the implementation of the strategy.[32]

58. Mozambique

National Plan of Action for the Area of Disability 2006 – 2010

This National Plan of Action attempts to materialize the constitutional principle of universality and equality, ensuring the respect for the rights of all Mozambican citizens, particularly persons with disabilities. In this regard, the plan aims to reduce the specific disadvantages that this group has compared to other citizens and towards their social integration. The plan is hence a prove of commitment of Mozambique to uphold the cause, interests and rights of people with disabilities, in the efforts of the continent to implement the programme of the African Decade of People with Disabilities.

59. Namibia

Disability Mainstream Programme 2011 – 2013

The programme is a multisectoral strategy aimed at mainstreaming disability in all sectors of government, from town councils to national ministries.[33]

60. Nepal

National Policy and Plan of Action 2006 – 2016 (PDF)

This action plan addresses the background, objectives, policies, strategies, and lists the agencies responsible for implementing activities, and the period of implementation, for each of the 17 areas specified as priority areas. The plan has adopted the long term objective of establishing an inclusive, obstacle free and rights-based society for people with disabilities, while including them in the mainstream of national development. Besides, the document stresses the need to generate people’s awareness and promote the government intention of establishing national accessibility standards.

61. New Zealand

New Zealand Disability Strategy (2001)

This Disability Strategy is intended to be an ‘enduring framework’, under which government departments and other government agencies are encouraged to consider people with disabilities before making decisions. Taking the lead, the Government will do everything possible to influence the attitudes and behavior of society as a whole. It sits alongside other government programs such as the Positive Ageing Strategy, the New Zealand Health Strategy and the Re- evaluation of Human Rights Protections in New Zealand.

62. Organization of American States

Program of Action for the Decade of the Americas for the Rights and Dignity of Persons with Disabilities (2006-2016) – Programming resolution (PDF)

Draft Program of Action for the Decade of the Americas for Persons with Disabilities (Document presented by the Permanent Mission of Peru for consideration by the CAJP at the beginning of its 2006-2007 term)

The program aims to achieve substantial progress in building an inclusive society based on solidarity and rights, in which persons with disabilities are valued for their potential contributions to the community. Furthermore, in view of their exclusion and vulnerability, which render them the poorest of the poor, the program establishes that people with disabilities shall be given priority in national and regional development and anti-poverty programs.

63. Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

Pacific Regional Strategy on Disability 2010 – 2015

The Pacific Regional Strategy on Disability was adopted by Pacific Ministers for disability in Rarotonga, Cook Islands in October 2009 to set out practical mechanisms by which the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat will support the governments of member countries to implement the articles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Based on the Convention, the Strategy prioritizes areas for regional cooperation.

64. Pakistan

National Plan of Action to implement the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities 2006 – 201

Elaborated with the support of the World Bank,[34] this Plan of Action is a strategic plan that responds to the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities of 2002. Based on the findings of a situation analysis previously conducted, this NPA is based on the philosophy that access, inclusion and equalization of opportunities for persons with disabilities, cannot be achieved by isolated interventions and that services are therefore to be designed in an integrated manner with the goal of full inclusion. Although the actions of the plan are mainly focused on the period 2006-2011, recommendations have been made up to 2015.

65. Panama

National Strategic Plan for the Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities and their families

2011 – 2014

Elaborated in cooperation with disability organizations and with public and private institutions, this plan offers an analysis of the environment and of its incidence on people with disabilities and it identifies new social actors that should be involved in the promotion of accessibility and inclusion. In particular, the plan aims to render disability a transversal issue, empower relevant civil society and private organization, foster the participation of people with disabilities in public affairs and promote the respect of Panama international engagement on disability.

66. Papua New Guinea

National Policy on Disability, Action Plan, and Situation Analysis[35]

67. Peru

Plan for the Equalization of Opportunities for People with Disabilities 2009 – 2018

This Plan is a technical-political instrument and it is the result of the cooperation of the different sectors of the State. Civil society organizations have also been deeply involved in its elaboration thanks to a nationwide consultation process. The main goal of the plan is to promote the

respect of the dignity of people with disabilities and to allow them to fully enjoy their rights while benefiting of equal opportunities. For each area of intervention, specific actions to be implemented are listed in the annexed tables.

68. Philippines

National Plan of Action for the Philippine Decade of Persons with Disabilities 2003 – 2012

The National Plan of Action for the Philippine Decade of Persons with Disabilities 2003 – 2012 provides the direction for programs aimed at achieving an inclusive, barrier-free and rights- based society for Philippines with disabilities. The Plan follows the targets of the Biwako Millennium Framework (Philippines 2007c).[36]

69. Poland

Government Program for People with Disabilities and their Integration with the Society[37]

70. Portugal

National Disability Strategy (ENDEF) 2011 – 2013

Following the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities or Incapacities (PAIPDI) implemented in the period 2006-2009, the National Disability Strategy represents a new working document to support the political promotion of persons with disabilities in Portugal. The Strategy is based on the CRPD principles and contains inter-ministerial measures on 5 main issues: disability and multi-discrimination, justice and legal rights; independence and quality of living; accessibility and universal design; administrative modernization and information systems. The document is available only in Portuguese.

71. Romania

National Strategy on social protection, integration and inclusion of people with disabilities for the period 2006 – 2013. “Equal opportunities for people with disabilities – towards a non- discriminatory society”

Based on the respect for the rights and dignity of people with disabilities, as provided by the CRPD, the Strategy aims to ensure the full exertion by all people with disabilities of their rights and fundamental liberties, with a view to enhancing the quality of their life. The fundamental concept of the Strategy is the freedom of choice: the disabled person has the possibility to make decisions regarding his/her own life, to manage the complementary personal budget and choose the services he/she needs, as well as the providers of such services, based on individual service contracts. This new strategy follows the National Strategy for the Special Protection and Social Integration of Disabled People in Romania, approved in 2002 and based on the principles of the 1993 UN Standard Rules.

72. Rwanda

National Programme (2010-2019)

The program has been compiled by the Rwanda National Decade Steering Committee (RNDSC) of the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities (ADPD) in consultation with the Government of Rwanda and the disability movement of Rwanda. It includes both government policies and programs and input from national Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs) and it is organized around a thematic structure in order to address issues for persons with disabilities in all areas of their lives.[38]

73. Samoa

National Policy Implementation Plan, 2009-2012

The implementation plan follows the Samoa National Policy on Disability, elaborated by a Disability Taskforce chaired by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development. The plan, whose mission is to “create a human rights based, inclusive and barrier free society which advocates for and empowers people with disabilities”, establishes a series of objectives and actions to be implemented, as well as a list of key result indicators to monitor their performance.

National%2520DISABILITY%2520Policy%2520%25202011.doc

74. Serbia

Strategy for Improving the Situation of Persons with Disabilities in the Republic of Serbia 2007 – 2015

Based on national and international documents on disability, this strategy is a medium-term plan of activities for all relevant stakeholders in the Republic of Serbia. The strategy considers the disability issue as a human rights issue and aims to strengthen the foundation of civil society by fostering the inclusion and the participation of all citizens in their community. Document only available in Serbian.

strategija-unaprdjenja-polozaja-osoba-sa-invaliditetom

75. Singapore

Enabling Masterplan 2007-2011

The Enabling Masterplan charts the development of programmes and services in the disability sector for the 5 years period 2007 – 2011. It encompasses concrete and comprehensive recommendations to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in Singapore. Each chapter of the Report addresses a specific aspect of the needs of PWDs.

EnablingMasterplan20072011.aspx

76. Slovenia

Action Programme for the Disabled 2007-2013

The Action Programme for the Disabled 2007-2013 views disability as multi-dimensional phenomenon (in accordance with the WHO ICF) that originates from interaction with the physical and social environment. It affirms universal rights, respect for difference, non-discrimination, accessibility and an individual approach to provision across a range of areas. Only available in Slovenian.

api_07_13.pdf

77. Spain

Action Plan for People with Disabilities 2009 – 2012

This Action Plan has at its center the goal of promoting the independence of persons with disabilities, in order to allow them to equally benefit from opportunities offered by other policies and to foster social cohesion. The Plan, which defines disability as a component of human diversity, is organized around 7 thematic areas: empowerment and participation; education and culture, employment; health; abuses and violence; social and legal protection. The document is only available in Spanish.

III_Plan_accion_2009-2012.pdf

78. Sweden

From patient to citizen. A national action plan for disability policy (2000)

From patient to citizen. A national action plan for disability policy is the most important policy document in Swedish disability policy. This action plan covers all sectors of society and shows disability policy to be of an inter-sectoral nature. Information about the plan objectives and main tasks is available in English at:http://www.handisam.se/Tpl/NormalPage____297.aspx Full version of the document available only in Swedish: e9da3800.pdf

79. Syria

National Plan for the Care and Habilitation of People with Disabilities (2008)

The Plan includes seven major areas of activity: (1) Evaluating and modifying the laws regarding disability including an evaluation of the international laws. Besides evaluating disability centers in Syria. (2) Evaluating the status of disability and establishing a national registry centre for disability. (3) Building capacity in the field of disability. (4) Prevention and early detection of disability. (5) Accessibility and inclusion. (6) Societal awareness of disability. (7) Establishing rehabilitation, vocational training, and assistive devices centers.

A summary of the plan can be found at:

syriaplan09-14.pdf

80. Tanzania

National Disability Mainstreaming Strategy 2010 – 2015

The strategy is aimed to promote the mainstream of disability in all government policies and programs and budgeting to ensure people with disabilities access benefits from and have space to contribute to the national development. Its ultimate goal is to ensure that people with disabilities are a natural and integral part of society as a whole, and have opportunities to contribute with their experience, talents and capabilities to national and international development.[39]

81. Thailand

Third National Plan on Quality of Life Development of Persons with Disabilities 2007-2011

This plan provides guidance for disability development practice for all authorities concerned. It is aimed to be a guideline on disability work for governmental and private organizations and a tool for the follow up and evaluation of the work implemented. Its main goals are the protection of the rights of people with disabilities, the quality of their lives and their integration through a barrier-free environment.

tn-23-227.pdf

82. Trinidad and Tobago

National Policy on Persons with Disabilities and Action Plan (2005)

The Action Plan compliments the National Policy on Persons with Disabilities and extends over a 7-year period. It covers a cross section of areas and it is meant to give effect to the recommendations for inclusion of persons with disabilities stated in the country disability policy.[40]

83. Turkey

Strategic Plan 2008 – 2012

The plan has been elaborated by the Turkish Administration for Disabled People. It came into force with a view to prevent discrimination against disability, and for the disabled to lead a life based on equality and full participation in society. A key objective of the plan has been to adopt a relevant national disability policy and to create eAccessibility services.

stratejik_plan.pdf

84. United Kingdom

Independent Living Strategy (2008)

The Independent Living Strategy (ILS), published in March 2008, sets forth actions aimed at improving the choice and control disabled people have over the services they need to live their daily lives.

The strategy is aimed at fostering the possibility for people with disabilities to have greater choice and control over how support is provided and to achieve greater access to housing, education, employment, leisure and transport opportunities and to participation in family and community life. In addition, the report makes proposals for the involvement of disabled people (including older disabled people) and their organizations in the implementation of the Strategy and invites responses to these proposals.

independent-living-strategy.php

Roadmap 2025 (2005 – 2025)

In conjunction with non-government partners and disabled people, the UK government has set out an ambitious vision for improving the life chances of disabled people. The Roadmap is based on 14 themes that disabled people have said will make the biggest difference to their lives. For each theme the website defines the overall objective and lists the achievements from 2005 to 2009 and the next steps of the strategy.

roadmap-to-disability-equality

85. Vanuatu

Vanuatu National Disability Policy and Plan of Action 2008-2012[41]

86. Viet-Nam

National Action Plan to Support People with Disabilities 2006-2010

The National Action Plan to Support People with Disabilities (Viet-Nam 2006e) is the main policy document for persons with disabilities in Viet-Nam. It aims to “provide opportunities for people with disabilities to participate fully and equally in social activities, to improve quality of life for people with disabilities and to build a barrier-free society and for the rights of people with disabilities.”[42] Key activities of the plan include: a national survey on disability, development of a national disability database and standardized criteria for classification of disability, revision or replacement of existing disability laws, establishment of self-help groups, and access to social security and poverty reduction programs.[43]

Endnotes

[1] UN Economic and Social commission for Asia and the Pacific, Armenia Overview Armenia20101215.doc

[2] UN Economic and Social commission for Asia and the Pacific Disability-at-a-Glance-2010.pdf

[3] ibid.

[4] Brazilian Government brazil-launches-plan-to-promote-empowerment-of-disabled-people

[5] Siam Daily News brazil-launches-plan-to-help-disabled-people

[6] Marco Legal de la Discapacidad, Recopilación efectuada por la Vicepresidencia de la República, marco_legal.pdf

[7] Ministry of Social Affairs, Denmark’s National Action Plan to combat Poverty and Social Exclusion, August 2003, aktionplan.pdf

[8] Ibid.

[9] Organization of American States, Ficha Tecnica. Republica Dominicana, sediscap_ficha_tecnica_repdom.pdf

[10] Consejo Nacional de Atencion Integral a la Persona con Discapacidad, El Salvador, es_12.htm

[11] Moving Towards Disability Inclusion. Ethiopia, International Labour Organization wcms_161517.pdf

[12] Dr. Davit Narmania, The Institutional Framework for Long -Term Social Care Benefits. National Report. Georgia, Tbilisi, January 2011

[13] Louise Ebbeson, Taeke Gjaltema, Candice Gonzales, An analysis of the status of implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Caribbean , ECLAC Subregional Headquarters for the Caribbean, February 2011 LCARL.280rev1.pdf

[14] Haiti Libre, http://www.haitilibre.com

[15] DWI Heru Sukoco, Huldaria Bako, The Enhancement of ICT accessibility for PWD’s in Indonesia, Directorate of Social Rehabilitation and Services for PWD’s, Ministry of Social Affairs Republic of Indonesia PT_Indo.pdf

[16] Government Achievement and Challenges Regarding the Enhancement of ICT Accessibility For PWD’s in Indonesia, unpan040430.pdf

[17] Statement by Mr. Djoharis Lubis, Deputy Coordinating Minister for People’s Welfare of the Republic of Indonesia Before the 43rd Session of the Commission for Social Development on Agenda Item 3 (b): Review of relevant United Nations plans and programmes of action pertaining to the situation of social groups, New York, 14 February 2005, 2c021405.htm

[18] Strengthening of the Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities within the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Development of the Special Social Services Provision System, United Nations Development Programme in Kazakhstan, 2011 10_Strengthening_of_Social_Protection_of_Persons_with_Disabilities.ppt

[19] Kenya Country Profile. Prepared by the ILO InFocus Programme on Skills, Knowledge and Employability in the framework of a project funded by Development Cooperation Ireland (DCI), March 2004, wcms_107837.pdf

[20] Disability Policy Central for Asia and the Pacific, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, specific_p

[21] Country Profile on Disability, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Japan International Cooperation Agency, March 2002 LaoPDR(2002).pdf

[22] Reply of Latvia to the OHCHR request for information on the implementation of the UN Human Rights Council Resolution 13/11. Latvia.doc

[23] UN Enable website http://www.un.org/disabilities/

[24] Dovile Juodkaite, Policy Paper. Present and future Challenges in Lithuanian Mental Health Policy: shifting from deinstitutionalization towards community integration. PolicyPaper.html

[25] Lithuania – ANED country profile, Academic Network of European Disability experts, April 2009, Lithuania ANED country profile.pdf

[26] Malasia – Country overview, Uinted Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, 2011 Malaysia20110316.doc

[27] Agbovi K. K, Etude sur la représentation et perception du handicap par les cadres de l’administration publique et les autorités locales. Projet DECISIPH, 2009 http://www.decisiph.org/uploads/media/MALI_Etude_perception_handicap.pdf

[28] United Nations Development Programme, Summary of ongoing projects in Mauritius and Seychelles http://un.intnet.mu/undp/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=50&Itemid=91

[29] Selected Conference and UNESCAP Commission Papers http://www.alastairwilkinson.com/?page_id=138

[30] TERMS OF REFERENCE, Support for Reform in the Area of the Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities: Design of Roadmap for Introduction of the World Health Organisation International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in Moldova, and Related Policy and Regulatory Reform Measures, as Foreseen under Item 3 of the Action Plan of the Government of the Republic of Moldova’s Strategy on the Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, 2010-2013, United Nations Development Programme, 2011 ToR_InterNational_Consultant_Final.pdf

[31] Mongolia, Regional Preparatory Workshop on Inclusive Education East Asia, Hangzhou, China, 3 – 5 November 2007, UNESCO International Bureau of Education, 2007 mongolia_inclusion_07.pdf

[32] Information on Implementation of Action Plan for Realization of Strategy for Persons with Disabilities in Montenegro for 2010, 2011 Information

[33] Disability and the Right to Development: moving policy to practice, The Secretariat of the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities, AKDube.ppt

[34] Pakistan Situation Analysis and National Plan of Action for Persons with Disabilities, World Bank, 2004 NPA-Summary.pdf

[35] Selected Conference and UNESCAP Commission Papers Papers

[36] UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, Disability Policy Central for Asia and the Pacific National_Plan_of

[37] Teresa Zolkowska, European Union Policy Toward People with Disabilities, Disability Studies Quarterly, Fall 2002, Volume 22, No. 4, pages 217-224. article

[38] Information kindly provided by the Secretariat of the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities

[39] Information kindly provided by the Secretariat of the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities

[40] Louise Ebbeson, Taeke Gjaltema, Candice Gonzales, An analysis of the status of implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Caribbean, ECLAC Subregional Headquarters for the Caribbean, 2011 LCARL.280rev1.pdf

[41] Paul Harpur and Richard Bales, The Positive Impact of the Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities: A Case Study on the South Pacific and Lessons from the U.S. Experience, Northern Kentucky Law Review, 2010, Vol. 37:4, pp. 365 – 386

[42] UN Economic and Social commission for Asia and the Pacific, Vietnam OverviewViet-Nam.doc

[43] Landmine and cluster munition monitor, Vietnam vietnam.html.