UN Human Rights Council, 61st session
Annual interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities.
Statement of the Republic of Lithuania, on behalf of Nordic-Baltic states.
6 March 2026
President, distinguished panellists,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
We thank the panel for providing their expert insights.
Persons with disabilities face daily discrimination and barriers to participation. Lack of disability-inclusive infrastructure, including transportation and housing affects the equal rights of persons with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of life.
Mobility barriers are not experienced equally, with women and girls with disabilities and women providing care and support to persons with disabilities being disproportionate affected.
Disability-inclusive infrastructure is more than a technical concern. It is the foundation for independent living for persons with disabilities and an enabler of autonomy and dignity.
Inclusive infrastructure benefits society by creating safer, more efficient and more sustainable environments and by strengthening care and support systems that underpin equality and dignity. Through the provision of accessible transport and housing we can reduce over-reliance on unpaid care work and third-party support.
In this regard, how can states equally address systematic barriers and territorial inequalities to ensure even progress towards inclusive instrastucture in line with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals?
Thank you.