Lesotho has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, using a global platform at the United Nations to call for greater equality, dignity and non-discrimination for all.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Mr Lesaoana Pitso, Lesotho’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. Matete ‘Nena delivered the country’s national statement during the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP19), held at the UN Headquarters in New York City.
Addressing delegates from across the world, Ambassador ‘Nena emphasized the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities fully enjoy their human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with others.
He stressed that promoting disability inclusion remains a shared global responsibility that requires governments, development partners and communities to work together to eliminate barriers that hinder participation and opportunity.
He said that the strategy has helped embed disability inclusion into policies, programmes and operational frameworks while strengthening accountability mechanisms to ensure that the needs and aspirations of persons with disabilities are adequately addressed.
He further observed that disability inclusion is not merely a matter of social welfare but a fundamental human rights issue that must be integrated into all aspects of governance and development planning. According to the ambassador, inclusive societies are stronger, more resilient and better equipped to achieve sustainable development goals.
Lesotho also used the international forum to reiterate its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The country called for renewed global action to ensure that disability inclusion remains a priority at both national and international levels.
The country’s participation at COSP19 reflects its continued efforts to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities and to advocate for a future in which every individual, regardless of ability, can participate fully and equally in society.
The conference brought together world leaders, policymakers, disability rights advocates and representatives of civil society to review progress made in implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and to explore strategies for accelerating inclusion worldwide.
Source: Lesotho News Agency [LENA]
