Adoption of the first Human Rights Councilresolution on the "Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities" (27 March 2008)

The Human Rights Council adopted its first ever resolution on the rights of persons with disabilities. Proposed by the Permanent missions of New Zealand and Mexico, the resolution had over fifty co-sponsors and reaffirmed the commitment to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. 

The resolution also mandated an annual interactive debate, the first of which was held at the Council's 10^th session focusing on key legal measures for ratification and effective implementation of the Convention, including with regard to equality and non discrimination.  In addition, the resolution requested the Office of the High Commissioner to prepare a thematic study to enhance awareness and understanding of the Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities, focusing on legal measures key for the ratification and effective implementation of the Convention, such as those relating to equality and non-discrimination, in consultation with States, civil society organizations, including organizations of persons with disabilities and national human rights institutions, and requested that the study be available on the website of the Office of the High Commissioner, in an accessible format, prior to the tenth session of the Council. 

Text of the Human Rights Council Resolution on the "Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities" A/HRC/RES/7/9

Oral statements:

Mexico
New Zealand