Welcome to E-news. Everyone is welcome to join Disabled Peoples International (DPI) and DPI-Korea as we focus on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities during our 7th World Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, September 5-8, 2007. Visit www.dpiwa.net for details. Register today.
In the news around the world this week are issues relating to women and children with disabilities.
Human Rights
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) released its Annual Report for 2006 assessing worldwide progress in international human rights. The full report is available at http://ohchr.org/english/about/docs/annualreport2006.pdf
Health and Welfare
The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip is causing concern over the mental health of children in the region. Further bombing has left homes without electricity and water. Children hide in their homes, too afraid to leave. Please read http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/oPt_40034.html
In Mumbai, India, more than ten years after the passing of the Persons with Disabilities Act, children with disabilities continue to remain low on the priority list of the state government. In a new report, funding for aids, such as canes and wheelchairs, for children with disabilities reaches less than 1% of those in need of assistance. http://www.disabilityindia.com/html/news.html#Funds
In North China’s Shanxi Province, six persons with cognitive disabilities were rescued from deplorable working conditions at an illegal brickyard or forced labour camp. Investigators reported the abuse of 359 people, including 12 children and 65 persons with cognitive disabilities. Please read http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-06/24/content_6284519.htm
Request for Assistance
In Liberia, the National Executive Committee of the Association of Disabled Females International (ADFI) is reaching out for assistance from disability organizations and women’s groups around the world. The ADFI needs help with capacity building, information sharing, and advocacy training. Any tools you can share are appreciated.
Please contact Ms. Ricardia B. Dennis via email at dfemales@yahoo.com
Or mail Ms. Ricardia B. Dennis - ADFI/ P. O. Box 390 - Monrovia, Liberia
Opportunities for Youth Participation and Empowerment
The United Nations Global Alliance for Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has launched a website to share information about a Youth Forum to be held in Geneva, Switzerland in September 2007. The Forum will allow for dialogue between youth and policy makers, leaders, and members of civil society. For more information, please read http://un-gaid.org/en/gfyouth
Update on Australian Controversy over a Student’s Thesis
A film mocking persons with disabilities submitted as a student’s thesis has provoked an uproar among academic and disability communities in Australia. The two senior academics, John Hookham and Gary MacLennan, who criticized the documentary, were suspended without pay by the university after being accused of jeopardizing academic freedom. Full update at http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/education/article1917877.ece
Women with Disabilities Who’s Who
If you know of any women with disabilities that you want listed in the Global Summit’s Directory, which is under construction and due for release in DPI’s World Assembly in South Korea, please contact Christian Park at 82-11-9007-6270 or Email contactchrispark@dpiwa.net
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