Accessibility to the physical and built environment, equal and non-discriminatory enjoyment of the right to education for persons with disabilities, provision of reasonable workplace accommodations, and access to disability-related benefits and allowances are top priorities, the Commissioner for Administration and the Protection of Human Rights, Ms Maria Stylianou-Lottides stated.
In a statement marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on 3 December, the Commissioner highlighted that a cornerstone of her Office’s work is the continuous dialogue and feedback with persons with disabilities and their representative organisations. This ensures that their rights are not compromised and that their voices and aspirations are heard.
She stressed that the primary goal is to continue and strengthen cooperation with the Cyprus Confederation of Organisations of the Disabled (KYSOA). This includes advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, as highlighted by KYSOA’s members, and increasing KYSOA’s active participation in the Advisory Committee for Monitoring the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
“It is unacceptable for any third party, whether from the Executive or Legislative Authority, to make decisions without listening to and taking into account the views and positions of persons with disabilities and their representative organisations,” the statement noted.
Legislative efforts
The Commissioner also mentioned that her Office had engaged in extensive consultations with the Department of Social Integration of Persons with Disabilities to finalise the draft legislation supporting decision-making by persons with disabilities. She expressed hope that this legislation would be passed soon.
Global perspective
According to data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 1.3 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability, representing 16% of the global population—one in every six people. In countries with a life expectancy exceeding 70 years, individuals spend, on average, 8 years or 11.5% of their total lifespan living with a disability.
The Commissioner’s statement emphasises the importance of ensuring that the rights and needs of persons with disabilities remain a priority in policy-making, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and equality.
