State of the World's Children 2013 - Unicef

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Involve children with disabilities in
making decisions
Children and adolescents with disabilities belong
at the centre of efforts to build inclusive societies
– not just as beneficiaries, but as agents of
change. States parties to the CRPD have affirmed
the right of children with disabilities to express
their views freely on all matters affecting them. In
so doing, governments have reaffirmed the principles
of the CRC and have obligated themselves
to consult children with disabilities when developing
and implementing legislation and policies
that concern them. This is in States’ interest, for
children and young people with disabilities can
enrich policymaking and service provision with
their daily experiences and are uniquely qualified
to provide information on whether their needs
are being met and their contributions utilized
across the full spectrum of issues and interventions:
from health and nutrition to sexual and
reproductive health, education and services for
the transition to adulthood.
The right to be heard applies to all children,
regardless of type or degree of disability, and
even children with profound disabilities can be
supported to express their choices and desires.
A child who is able to express herself or himself
is a child who is much less likely to be abused
or exploited. Conversely, abuse and exploitation
thrive where children lack the means to challenge
their oppression. Participation is especially
important for such marginalized groups as
children who live in institutions.
To recognize that children and adolescents with
disabilities are the holders of rights, not the recipients
of charity, is not to eliminate the need for
appropriate rehabilitation, medical treatment or
aids and appliances. It does mean, however, that
children’s rights, perspectives and choices must
be respected. In turn, this will entail decision-makers
communicating in ways and by means that
are easily accessed and used by children with disabilities,
so their views can be incorporated in the
Children play netball at Ojwina Primary School in Lira, Uganda. © UNICEF/UGDA2012-00120/Sibiloni
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THE STATE OF THE WORLD’S CHILDREN 2013: Children with Disabilities