LocationsFortifying Disability Rights through Comprehensive Training for Ombudsperson Office
November 8, 2023
In a landmark initiative, the Republic of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with generous support from the Government of Finland, is conducting a pivotal two-day training aimed at fortifying the rights of persons with disabilities. The training, held in Tashkent, is equipping regional representatives of the National Ombudsperson in Uzbekistan with essential knowledge on international standards in the realm of human rights for persons with disabilities. This initiative, a part of the joint project ‘Strengthening Rule of Law and Human Rights Protection in Uzbekistan’, underscores Uzbekistan's commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of people with disabilities.
Uzbekistan has demonstrated its dedication to this cause when in 2017, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan signed the Decree “On measures to radically improve the system of state support for persons with disabilities,” leading to the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on June 7, 2021. Subsequently, on December 19, 2022, the Kengash of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Kengash of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis adopted a joint Resolution “On the national action plan for the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2023-2025.”
The training, organized by UNDP, allows the participants to delve deep into the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), providing a comprehensive understanding of its key principles, terminologies, and the definition of disability. Furthermore, the initiative explores international approaches to equality, addresses the issue of discrimination based on disability, and highlights recommendations from international human rights bodies received by Uzbekistan. The training programme emphasizes the pivotal role played by the Ombudsperson and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in safeguarding the rights of people with disabilities.
Distinguished individuals, including Ms. Feruza Eshmatova, the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis for Human Rights, Mr. Anas Qarman, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, and Mr. Ilkka Räisänen, Ambassador of Finland to Central Asia, inaugurated the event with their speeches.
Anas Fayyad Qarman, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, highlighted the significance of promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring their equal access to justice, and creating an inclusive and accessible legal aid system through collaboration with key stakeholders.
This comprehensive training programme marks a pivotal step forward in Uzbekistan's journey toward a more inclusive society, where the rights of all individuals, regardless of their abilities, are safeguarded. The knowledge and insights gained from this initiative are poised to play a transformative role in the effective implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Uzbekistan.
UNDP supports the efforts of the Government of Uzbekistan towards fostering an environment of equality, justice, and dignity for everyone.
