Jordan showcases commitment to disability rights with int'l stakeholders

AMMAN — Director of the Prime Ministry’s Human Rights Department Khalil Abdallat on Tuesday said that Jordan reaffirmed its leadership in disability rights, underscoring the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.

Speaking at a specialised training session, Abdallat stressed the pivotal role of His Majesty King Abdullah’s vision in positioning Jordan as a global leader in this field, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.  

The event, organised by the Human Rights Department in cooperation with the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, brought together national and international stakeholders to discuss the future of disability rights in Jordan and internationally.

Among the key participants were UN Resident Representative in Jordan Sheri Ritsema-Anderson and Regional Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mazen Shaqoura.

Abdallat also highlighted that under the leadership of King Abdullah’s and HRH Crown Prince Hussein, Jordan has made "significant" strides in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, setting an example for the region and beyond.

He stressed that the Kingdom has become a model in developing legislative frameworks that align with international standards and promote justice, equality, and inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities.

He also noted that this reflects Jordan’s commitment to strengthening human rights protection, particularly for people with disabilities, under the leadership of the King and HRH Crown Prince Hussein.

The training session was also part of Jordan’s preparations for the upcoming international Summit in Berlin, where the Kingdom will showcase its achievements in disability rights and highlight His Majesty's role in advancing these issues on the international stage.

Abdallat said the event would underline Jordan’s ambitious vision to establish global standards for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.

He also pointed to Jordan’s commitment to disability rights, noting the impact of the Disability Rights Law No. 20 of 2017.

"This landmark law set new regional standards and ensured the dignity and equality of persons with disabilities, marking a significant shift in the region’s approach," he added.

Abdallat also highlighted the vital role played by Prince Hussein in supporting the integration of youth, including those with disabilities, into the Jordanian society.

He also commended HCD President HH Prince Mired for leading efforts to empower and integrate persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.

Abdallat highlighted Jordan’s engagement with international human rights mechanisms, noting that the Kingdom has received over 1,200 recommendations from various UN bodies, including 756 from the Universal Periodic Review and 382 from treaty bodies.

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve the rights of persons with disabilities, Abdallat announced that the government is currently drafting a comprehensive national plan to implement these recommendations in partnership with civil society organisations.

Anderson praised Jordan’s leadership in disability rights, noting that the Kingdom’s efforts set a global standard.

She reaffirmed the UN’s full commitment to supporting Jordan’s efforts to ensure accessibility and participation for all persons with disabilities.