The most important step for people with disabilities was the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention, which 153 countries have signed, and 115 have ratified, sets out fundamental rights and freedoms for persons with disabilities around the world, in all areas of life. The value of an international instrument such as this to people with disabilities around the world cannot be under-estimated, as it promotes, protects and ensures the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. It also promotes respect for their inherent dignity.
The general principles of the Convention are the following:
(a) Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one’s own choices, and independence of persons;
(b) Non-discrimination;
(c) Full and effective participation and inclusion in society;
(d) Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity;
(e) Equality of opportunity;
(f) Accessibility;
(g) Equality between men and women;
(h) Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities.
Cyprus ratified the UN Convention for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 4.3.2011.
According to the Council of Ministers Decision dated 9/5/2012, the appropriate mechanisms for the implementation and monitoring of the UN Convention in Cyprus , regarding to article 33 ofthe Convention, are nominated as follows:
· The Department for Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities as the Focal point for the implementation of the Convention.
· The Pancyprian Council of Persons with Disabilities, which operates in the framework of Persons with Disabilities Laws 2000-2007 as advisory body, as the Coordinating Mechanism.
· The Ombudsman and Commissioner for the Protection of Human Rights/Equality Authority as the Independent Mechanism for the promotion, protection and monitoring of the Convention.