Timeline of disability rights outside the United States

Timeline of Disability Rights Outside the United States

The timeline of disability rights outside the United States highlights significant events, legislation, and movements that have contributed to the advancement of rights for people with disabilities around the world. This timeline provides an overview of key milestones in the global disability rights movement.

Early Developments

• 1948: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, affirming the rights of all individuals, including those with disabilities.

• 1971: The Declaration on the Rights of Mentally Retarded Persons is proclaimed by the United Nations, recognizing the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

1980s

• 1981: The International Year of Disabled Persons is declared by the United Nations, promoting awareness and encouraging measures to improve the situation of persons with disabilities.

• 1982: The World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons is adopted by the United Nations, providing a global strategy to enhance disability rights and inclusion.

1990s

• 1993: The Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities are adopted by the United Nations, serving as a framework for policy-making and action.

• 1995: The European Disability Forum is established to represent the interests of people with disabilities in Europe.

2000s

• 2006: The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is adopted by the United Nations, marking a significant international treaty to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

• 2008: The CRPD enters into force, becoming legally binding for countries that have ratified it.

2010s

• 2011: The World Report on Disability is published by the World Health Organization and the World Bank, providing comprehensive data and analysis on disability worldwide.

• 2015: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are adopted by the United Nations, including specific targets to promote the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities.

2020s

• 2021: The European Union adopts the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030, aiming to ensure full participation and equal opportunities for people with disabilities in Europe.

Related Pages

• Disability rights movement
• Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
• International Year of Disabled Persons
• Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities