Representation that Matters: Enhancing Active Citizenships for Young People with Disabilities (COSP19 Side Event)

How can we promote and support the opportunities for young people with disabilities and thereby their influence as involved, engaged, and equal actors within civil society, public and political life?

Meaningful youth participation is essential in order to enhance a socially sustainable society, where all citizens are able to participate in and contribute to society on an equal basis - leaving no one behind. Article 29(b) of the CRPD obligates States Parties to actively promote an environment in which persons with disabilities can effectively and fully participate in the conduct of public affairs, without discrimination and on an equal basis with others, and to encourage their participation in public affairs. However, research shows, that factors such as lack of information, physical inaccessibility, prejudice, and low knowledge of various disabilities lead to low participation in public and political forums for young people with disabilities.

Ensuring the appropriate frameworks to promote a conducive environment for young people with disabilities to participate, influence and take on leadership in civil society, public and political life is fundamental for the promotion of an active citizenship without barriers.

By bringing together policymakers, experts and youth representatives this side event aims to discuss how we move beyond theoretical rights and toward practical inclusion in order to ensure that democratic arenas are not just open, but actively welcoming, empowering young people with disabilities to be involved, engaged, and equal actors in society. The side event is organized by the governments of Denmark, Faroe Islands and Greenland and the Nordic Council of Ministers.