United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities & U.S. Ratification Issues

During the 113th Congress, the Senate might consider providing its advice and consent to ratification of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). CRPD, which has been ratified or acceded to by 129 countries, is a multilateral agreement that addresses the rights of disabled persons. Its purpose is to promote, protect, and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by persons with disabilities. Many U.S. policymakers, including President Obama and some Members of Congress, agree that existing U.S. laws and policies are compatible with CRPD. In fact, some CRPD provisions appear to be modelled after U.S. disability laws. The United States has historically recognised the rights of individuals with disabilities through various laws and policies, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. This book provides an overview on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, with a focus on its objectives, structure, and policy issues.