Summary

This report explains the economic case for disability-inclusive policies, relying on mounting evidence on the cost of their exclusion. Disability-inclusive development strategies not only improve the situation of persons with disabilities, but they are also better for the economy, contributing to the development of society as a whole. In the report, the Special Rapporteur provides guidance for policymakers to ensure that all policies and strategic frameworks, from the design and planning to the implementation and monitoring are fully inclusive of persons with disabilities.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted in 2015, represent an exceptional opportunity for States to include persons with disabilities in National Development Plans and strategies. In order to meet the SDGs goals and targets, State policies and programmes must meet the needs of persons with disabilities.

To understand the cross-cutting impact of disability in the person, family and community, the Special Rapporteur argues for the need to look at poverty rates using multi-dimensional approaches. Among the many elements to be considered when implementing disability-inclusive policies at national levels, three key aspects are highlighted:

1. The existence of a framework that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in all areas of life, and ensures that reasonable accommodation is provided to persons with disabilities.
2. Accessibility is a requirement that must be set up to enable persons with disabilities to access and enjoy all programmes and services, and to participate fully and independently in society.
3. The availability of services and the provision of assistive devices that support the autonomy and inclusion of persons with disabilities, allowing them to benefit from all policies and programmes on an equal basis with others.

The report elaborates on key considerations for implementation of disability-inclusive frameworks, which include strategies for mainstreaming, adequate frameworks for ensuring participation, adequate funding, monitoring and data collection mechanisms, as well as strong safeguards to prevent gender inequalities and other forms of discrimination.