S’pore to sign global convention to promote, protect rights of people with disabilities

SINGAPORE : Singapore will sign a global convention that promotes and protects the rights of people with disabilities.

It will sign the United Nations Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) on Friday in New York.

The UNCRPD sets out the obligations by states to recognise the dignity of persons with disabilities.

Singapore has a roadmap called Enabling Masterplan (EM) to achieve an inclusive society for persons with disabilities.

The first EM covered the period 2007—2011.

The second and current EM, released earlier this year, covers the period 2012—2016.

Anita Fam, vice president of the Asian Women’s Welfare Association and a member of the EM 2012—2016 Steering Committee, said signing the Convention will inspire Singapore to work steadily towards creating a society where persons with disabilities are respected and accepted as integral members.

Acting Minister for Social and Family Development, Chan Chun Sing, said signing the Convention underscores Singapore’s collective commitment to do even more to improve the lives of persons with disabilities.

These include areas such as early intervention, education, employment and adult care.

"We will make steady efforts towards this worthy and meaningful goal," he said.

— CNA/ms