Our mission at the Office of the International Disability Special Rapporteur (IDSR) for people of African descent with disabilities is to promote and protect the rights, dignity, and inclusion of individuals living with disabilities within the African diaspora. We are committed to advocating for equitable opportunities, eliminating discrimination, and fostering empowerment for persons with disabilities across all spheres of life. Through robust research, advocacy, and engagement with stakeholders at local, national, and international levels, we strive to address systemic barriers and advance policies that uphold the principles of equality, accessibility, and social justice. Our mission is grounded in a deep respect for diversity, recognizing the unique intersectional experiences of individuals with disabilities of African descent, and championing their voices in decision-making processes worldwide.
Our vision is of a world where people of African descent with disabilities are fully recognized as equal members of society, enjoying the same rights, opportunities, and freedoms as their non-disabled counterparts. We envision a future where disability is not a barrier to participation in all aspects of life – be it education, employment, healthcare, or civic engagement. In this future, every individual, regardless of their disability status or racial background, will have access to inclusive services, accommodations, and support systems that enable them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We envision governments, organizations, and communities embracing diversity and actively dismantling structural inequalities to create a more inclusive and accessible world for all. As the Office of the IDSR, we are dedicated to working collaboratively with governments, civil society organizations, and international bodies to realize this vision, leveraging our expertise and advocacy to drive positive change and ensure the full realization of the rights of people of African descent with disabilities worldwide.
1. To promote inclusive education and research programs on disability as a cross-cutting issue 2. Promote equality and ensure opportunities are available for all. 3. Advocacy for a health care system for people with disabilities. 4. To strengthen institutional capacities for improved human health and social service delivery to vulnerable persons in society. 5. To promote sensitization campaigns on inclusive education, disability rights, and gender equality 6. To create capacity building for civil society organizations, and disability networks on education and human rights for Persons with Disabilities, Women and Girls 7. To establish Community Support Networks for Psychosocial development and Training 8. To promote a zero tolerance to corruption, and any other related vices.
