LocationsAdvocating for the Inclusion of the Disability Rights Agenda into Electoral Manifestos
June 13, 2024
As part of the UNDP Democracy and Elections Project's inclusion component, the Forum of Associations of People with Disabilities (FAMOD) held today a Platform of Dialogue with members from the Main Political Entities, High Ranking Officials of Electoral Management Bodies, Representatives of Associations of People with Disabilities and the Media to Advocate for the Inclusion of the Disability Rights Agenda into Political Electoral Manifestos, ahead of the upcoming General Elections. The activity is supported by the governments of Canada, the European Union, Norway and Spain.
A physically disabled person speaking to the event's participants
Why the Disability Rights Agenda is Crucial
First and foremost, let us consider the numbers. In 2023, globally, an estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disability. This represents 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in 6 of us, according to WHO. In Mozambique, the most recent figures indicate that around 2.6 per cent of the population has some form of disability.
"These individuals represent a significant portion of our electorate, our workforce, and our communities. Yet, they often face systemic barriers that hinder their full participation in political, economic, and social life", said Mr. Cleophas Torori, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Programme.
"By including the disability rights agenda in your manifestos, you are making a commitment to address these barriers. You are pledging to create policies and frameworks that ensure equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, allowing them to contribute to and benefit from societal development", he urged.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative addressing a speech to the audience
The Role of Political Leaders
A manifesto that includes clear, actionable commitments to disability rights sends a powerful message. "It signals your dedication to promoting accessibility, ensuring inclusive political and democratic processes, and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life", said Mr. Andres del Castillo, CTA of the UNDP Democracy and Elections Project.
CTA of the UNDP Democracy and Elections Project, Mr. Andres del Castillo, talking to the media and explaining the importance of including the disability rights agenda into electoral manifestos
A Call to Action
"Today, I call upon each of you to be advocates for inclusion. Engage with disability rights organizations, listen to the experiences of persons with disabilities, and incorporate their feedback into your policy-making processes", appealed Mr Cleophas Torori.
"Let us work together to ensure that in the upcoming elections, every political manifesto reflects a commitment to the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Let this be the election where we turn the tide towards true inclusivity and equality", complemented Mr. Andres del Catillo, during the closing remarks.
Key take ways
Increased Awareness and Understanding:
✅“Attending this event has been an eye-opening experience. It highlighted the crucial need for political entities to consider the rights and needs of persons with disabilities in our election manifestos.”
Participant addressing some questions and testifying the importance of the event
✅“This event has empowered me with knowledge, including legislative frameworks, and tools to advocate for disability rights more effectively. I now feel more confident in pushing for policies that will make a real difference in the lives of PwD.”
Participant addressing some questions and testifying the importance of the event
Emphasis on Inclusive Governance:
✅“It was a transformative experience. The event highlighted the gaps in current political agendas regarding disability rights and provided actionable steps to address them.”
Participant addressing some questions and testifying the importance of the event
Notes to editors:
About the UNDP Democracy and Elections Project:
- Developed based on the formal request of the Government of Mozambique, the recommendation of the Needs Assessment Mission (NAM) conducted by the United Nations in April 2021 and other documents, the ‘Strengthening Democracy and Electoral Processes in Mozambique’ is a four-year UNDP project designed to strengthen the democratic and electoral system in Mozambique and builds on previous electoral support and lessons from past electoral processes.
- The project is aligned with the UNDP Country Programme Document (CPD) and the Government of Mozambique's Five-Year Plan 2020-2024 (Programa Quinquenal do Governo, PQG).
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