Joint EDF-IDDC statement on EU guidance note on disability inclusion in EU External Action
The European Disability Forum (EDF) and the International Disability and Development Consortium (IDDC) have released a joint statement welcoming the new European Union (EU) Guidance Note on “Leaving no one behind – Disability Inclusion in EU External Action”.
The guidance note is an example of the EU’s increasing efforts to promoting disability-inclusive development in policies and programmes, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in EU external action. We also praise the EU’s use of the OECD-DAC disability marker to 100% of all its Overseas Development Assistance (ODA).
In joint EDF-IDDC statement, we call for the full implementation of the Guidance note, which requires the investment in training of EU staff working in EU external action, the appointment of disability focal points in EU Delegations, and strengthening the dialogue with OPDs.
Finally, we urge the EU to adopt an action plan for its external action on promoting and respecting the rights of persons with disabilities.