Buhumaid: Empowering people of determination part of Gov’s vision

The remarks came in a statement made by at the 15th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which took place from June 14-16 in New York. The UAE also participated in a side event entitled "Disability in Pandemics and Crises: Technology Adaptation and Economic Empowerment."

She said the UAE promotes the rights of people of determination with numerous federal and local laws, which prioritise access to accommodation and ensure their needs are taken into account in various fields.

"These include the Response Policy to the Empowerment of People of Determination in Emergencies, Crises & Disasters, National Policy for Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder under the ‘United for Autism’ vision, the Electronic Access Policy for People of Determination, and other policies and laws that align with international legislation to support and empower people of determination."

The minister underscored the important role the National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) plays as an independent entity in the UAE that operates in accordance with the internationally adopted Paris Principles. The NHRI, she noted, works to advance the rights of people of determination and improve their quality of life, adding that the UAE Government believes in international cooperation as a solid foundation to advance social development.

The minister also noted during her participation in the side event that the UAE Ministry of Community Development has built a database that includes accurate demographic, social, and educational data for more than 30,000 people of determination in the country. The UAE has issued identification cards that enable them to access many benefits, services, and facilities. During the pandemic in particular, the minister noted, this database helped identify the needs and geographical distribution of people of determination.