Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

international agreement

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July 17, 2026

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The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is an international agreement adopted by the United Nations in 2006. It aims to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal rights and freedoms, and to promote their full inclusion and participation in society.12

The convention builds upon earlier declarations, such as the 1975 UN Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons, which stated that all individuals with disabilities have the same rights as others. The CRPD enumerates civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights for persons with disabilities, addressing areas like accessibility, education, health, and employment. It represents a significant step in framing disability issues as human rights issues and has been widely ratified by countries worldwide.12

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disability rights movement
The 21st century
…the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)—the first international convention to address equal rights specifically for disabled persons. The CRPD came into force in 2008 and by 2023 was almost at universal ratification, with 186 States Parties. In 2011 support for the disability…
Read More
…the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)—the first international convention to address equal rights specifically for disabled persons. The CRPD came into force in 2008 and by 2023 was almost at universal ratification, with 186 States Parties. In 2011 support for the disability…
Read More