Doha: HE Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, emphasized that the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) represents a significant global shift from a welfare-based approach to a rights-based approach. This statement was made during her speech at the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the CRPD (COSP19) at the United Nations headquarters.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Attiyah highlighted the essential role played by National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in promoting the effective implementation of the CRPD. She asserted that NHRIs are instrumental in ensuring that persons with disabilities enjoy their rights on an equal basis with others. NHRIs contribute by aligning national legislation with the Convention's provisions, engaging in the development of national policies, monitoring implementation, and fostering a culture of rights and empowerment.
The NHRC, she noted, has been proactive in encouraging the issuance of a law on the rights of persons with disabilities in Qatar. The committee participated in discussions on the draft law and submitted observations and recommendations to ensure full compliance with the CRPD before its expected enactment in 2025. Al Attiyah stressed that the primary challenge now is not only recognizing rights but ensuring their practical enjoyment by persons with disabilities in everyday life.
Over the past two decades, significant achievements have been made globally, including strengthening legal frameworks, expanding opportunities for education and employment, improving access to services, and raising public awareness about disability rights. Al Attiyah underscored the necessity of active participation by persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in policy and legislation development, reflecting the principle of representation.
She pointed out that legislation marks only the beginning of the journey. The NHRC has established a specialized unit for the rights of persons with disabilities and launched a Protection and Empowerment Program to address challenges in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Al Attiyah also drew attention to the additional hardships faced by persons with disabilities in conflict and crisis-affected areas, where access to essential services and protection becomes even more critical.
In conclusion, Al Attiyah called for the 20th anniversary of the Convention to serve as a platform for assessing progress, renewing political commitment, and accelerating implementation to bridge existing gaps.