We are deeply disturbed from the escalation of the events and tensions in Ukraine. As an international organization for advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities worldwide as its mission, our thoughts are with the Ukrainian disabled community, and their families.
Rehabilitation International (RI) is deeply concerned for the safety, health, and well-being of the 2.7 million registered persons with disabilities in Ukraine, who the most vulnerable group, that suffers the most in times of unrest.
Rehabilitation International (RI) calls for all parties to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in Ukraine, by respecting:
- their obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, in particular Article 11 on situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies.
- the UN Security Council Resolution 2475 (2019) on Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Conflict.
- International Humanitarian Law and the Humanitarian Principles.
Advocating the rights and inclusion to ensure the health and well-being for persons with disabilities lies at the core of the Rehabilitation International (RI) mandate and commitments in all situations. May peace and love prevail the world.
About Rehabilitation International:
Founded in 1922, Rehabilitation International (RI) is a worldwide organization comprised of people with disabilities, service providers, government agencies, academics, researchers, and advocates working to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities. With member organizations in more than 100 countries and in all regions of the world, RI also provides a forum for the exchange of experience and information on research and practice. To learn more about Rehabilitation International and the work the that have built the organization, visit RI website: www.riglobal.org