People with disabilities have the right to live in the community, according to Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, more than a decade after the adoption of the CRPD by the UN and nearly global ratification, children with disabilities continue to be placed in institutions in every region of the world. As countries seek to uphold their obligations to the CRPD and approach care reform for children with disabilities, the end of institutionalization will only be successful if reforms include preventative measures and family strengthening efforts. By drawing on the experiences of parents, advocates, NGOs, and public officials, this side event will invite discussion on how through strengthening families and tools for prevention, societies can reduce the number of children being institutionalized.
Watch the webinar recording here.