Chair,
As we mark 20 years of the CRPD, we have made important progress, yet significant work remains.
I am proud to share that Norway has – finally – incorporated the Convention into the Human Rights Act.
The Convention now applies as Norwegian law.
It will take precedence over other legislation in case of conflict.
By incorporating the Convention into the Human Rights Act, we are sending the strongest possible signal of the importance of the rights of persons with disabilities.
Chair,
Incorporation alone is not enough.
Effective implementation is essential. Norway is therefore revising our national strategy for the equality of persons with disabilities.
At the same time, we are advancing our CRPD project, strengthening knowledge in municipalities and public sector, and promoting participation to ensure equal rights everywhere.
Chair,
We express a strong commitment to a world free from exploitation.
Violence.
Abuse of persons with disabilities.
Through our safeguarding model, TryggEst, we are strengthening protection for vulnerable adults, fully aligned with the CRPD.
We are proud to expand this model.
It will enhance prevention, awareness, and professional competence nationwide.
Chair,
“Nothing about us without us” must move from principle to practice. I now give the floor to our youth delegate, Nora Sulejmani.
Chair,
Growing up with only five percent vision has taught me that disability does not limit my potential, barriers do.
Equal access to education, employment, assistive technology, and infrastructure is essential for the participation of persons with disabilities and for building stronger, more democratic, and sustainable societies.
Young people with disabilities face both existing and new forms of exclusion, especially in an increasingly digital world. We must be heard and included in shaping the solutions, not only as leaders of tomorrow, but as active participants today.
Chair,
In times of global crises, conflict, and setbacks to human rights and equality, we must ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind.
Rights are never simply given to us, they are something we must continue to fight for and protect.
Disability can affect anyone, whether temporarily or permanently. That is why the fight for inclusion and equal rights concerns us all.
Thank you.