15th Meeting of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities - Statement by Iceland
15th Meeting of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Statement by Iceland
Thor G. Thorarinsson
Senior Advisor, Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour.
Mr. President.
Last November the Government of Iceland decided to incorporate the CRPD into national law. Extensive work has been undertaken, in broad consultation with numerous stakeholders, to map and analyze the current law on services for persons with disabilites and their current implementation to identify the opportunities and challenges that the Government is facing in achieving this goal.
This also served to achieve a common understanding of the status of the services, and to create trust among all of those working on the preparation of the legislation.
We expect this to be crucial step to bring Iceland fully in line with the Convention.
Mr. President,
Work has also started for the preparation of a new national plan on the rights of persons with disabilities with a clear vision and targets for the future, based on the previously mentioned mapping of services. The new plan, that will run until 2030, will integrate efforts to achieve the sustainable development goals and be firmly grounded in the Convention. Progress will be assessed once a year with all stakeholders.
Finally, Mr. President, the government is committed to increasing opportunities for persons with disabilities to education which we believe is one of the most meaningful ways to support equality in our societies. This commitment also extends to increasing opportunities for work, including through flexible arrangements and part time jobs.
I thank you Mr. President.