DFN Funders Teleconference: U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

As of April 3, 2008, twenty countries have ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). This ratification triggers the “coming into force” of the Convention one month later on May 3. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon congratulated the United Nations member states that have ratified or acceded to the Convention. Some 126 countries have signed the Convention since March 30, 2007, and 71 have signed the optional protocol. “It is a historic moment in our quest for realization of the universal human rights for ALL persons, creating a fully inclusive society for all,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson Marie Okabe said in a statement celebrating the rapid progress.

Join other funders for a teleconference. What will this newest human rights treaty mean for work on the ground and human rights advocacy at the United Nations? What impact might it have or should it have on your grantmaking? Whether you fund disability issues in the United States, development, LBGT rights, children’s rights, women’s rights or “mainstream” human rights, the CRPD presents new opportunities for your grantees and your grantmaking. Join colleagues who will introduce the CRPD, discuss how the Treaty has changed or will change their work, and help you find the resources to learn more. Speakers will be announced shortly.

Date and Time: Tuesday, May 20 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern

RSVP: Addison Smith, info@ihrfg.org
Please RSVP – You will receive call-in information when you make your reservation.

Co-sponsors:

• Disability Funders Network
• International Human Rights Funders Group
• Disability Rights Fund