IHC self advocate speaks up for disabled people in Asia Pacific
In mid December, David Corner, IHC self advocacy coordinator, represented Inclusion International at the Regional Stakeholder Consultation for the High-Level Intergovernmental Meeting on the Final Review of the Implementation of the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons, 2003 – 2012, in Bangkok.
The meeting focused on reviewing the ten goals of the “Incheon Strategy to Make the Right Real” for people with disabilities in the Asia Pacific. The Incheon Strategy is an action framework for the new Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons, 2013 to 2022.
David, supported by Julia Hawkins, made some very important statements including: ensuring that self help and family advocacy groups are included in political decision-making and; commenting on the importance of real work for real pay for people with disabilities in the Asia Pacific. In recognition of their contribution, Inclusion International was nominated as one of 15 civil society organisations to be invited to the next Preparatory Meeting on the 14th – 16th March, 2012.
Whilst in Bangkok, David and Julia also made time to connect with local self advocacy groups and other disability organizations. They attended a meeting with the Asia Pacific Disability Forum as well as giving a presentation at the Asia Pacific Development Centre on Disability.
David said he was pleased to be representing Inclusion International and enjoyed working alongside other disability groups.
Related web site: www.unescap.org/sdd/
