THE 1ST CONGRESS ON WOMEN AND GIRLS WITH DISABILITIES IN THE ASIA PACIFIC REGION IN THAILAND

Manique Gunaratne attended the 1st Congress on Women and Girls with Disabilities which was held with the Theme on civil and political rights in the context of women and girls with disabilities in December 2023 at the Prince Palace Hotel, in Bangkok, Thailand.

The event was organised by The Asia Pacific Network of Women with Disabilities United (APWWDU), Department for the Empowerment of Person with Disabilities (DEP) Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Disability Rights Advocacy Fund (DRAF), Women’s Fund Asia (WFA), Minority Rights Group International, ASEAN Disability Forum (ADF) and the  Association of Physically Disability of Thailand (APHT).

The goal of the congress was “Voices of women and girls with disabilities: loud and proud”.

The congress was held with the objectives of:

1. Community Building: Establish a strong independent network of women and girls with disabilities where is friendly platform of women and girls with disabilities to collectively advocate for their rights, representation, and inclusivity in various spheres of society.
2. Networking: The congress was a foundation meeting of women and girls with disabilities in Asia Pacific to approve and adopt the constitution, vision, strategy and plan of activities, call for a membership and other organizational management.
3. Information Exchange: Facilitate the exchange of information, resources, and advice related to gender ad disability.
4. Advocacy: The Congress produced the advocacy statement and recommendation with a priority subject concerning to disability, gender and intersectionality in accordance with CRPD
5. Skill Development: Offer concurrent sessions to enhance advocacy skills, and boost confidence among women with disabilities.
6. Awareness: Raise awareness about the challenges faced by women with disabilities, promoting understanding on the intersection of human rights, gender, and disabilities.

 

Manique Gunaratne

Founder: Kishara Trust