Historic Recognition for Disability Inclusion in Global Climate Negotiations

A landmark step toward inclusive climate action was achieved last week as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) formally recognised the Disability Caucus as “an Informal Group of stakeholders active within in the UNFCCC process”. This follows nearly a decade of advocacy from the global disability movement and supporting organisations, including members of the International Disability and Development Consortium, who have pushed for stronger representation within climate negotiations. While securing full UNFCCC Constituency status remains the ultimate objective, this initial recognition marks a much needed shift, signalling that disability inclusion in climate policy is not simply beneficial, but essential.

IDDC is delighted to see the recognition of the disability caucus. This is an important step by the UNFCCC and it aligns with the CRPD and its obligations to ensure persons with disabilities and their representative organisations are consulted with and engaged in policy making in areas that impact their lives, climate is one of these. We look forward to supporting the work of the caucus, many IDDC members are member of the caucus. Mary Keogh, IDDC Chair

A Critical Advancement for the one billion

The urgency of this recognition cannot be overstated. With 80% of people with  disabilities living in low‑income countries facing severe and accelerating climate impacts, they disproportionately experience barriers to accessible systems, transport, and emergency response, leaving them at heightened risk during climate‑fuelled disasters. Until now, disability considerations have frequently been overlooked in climate planning and policy. With more than 120 organisations—three‑quarters from the Global South—represented within the newly recognised Disability Caucus, this decision is the starting point to offering a platform that brings lived experience into global climate discussions where it has long been absent.

A Collective Victory and the Road to Full Constituency Status

This breakthrough is the result of sustained collaboration among disability organisations, OPDs, allies across continents, and supportive member states. Leaders across the movement describe the recognition as long overdue – but also as a beginning, as we continue with the call for full Constituency status to ensure equal standing with other stakeholder groups and embed disability rights firmly into global climate action. This milestone  is to be celebrated and represents meaningful progress but we must ensure it becomes fully transformational.