More than 40 countries have already indicated they will sign the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities when it opens for signature by States and regional integration organisations at a solemn ceremony in the UN General Assembly hall.

At its core, the convention ensures that persons with disabilities enjoy the same human rights as everyone else, and are able to lead their lives as fully-fledged citizens who can make valuable contributions to society if given the same opportunities. It covers rights such as equality, non-discrimination and equal recognition before the law; liberty and security of the person; accessibility, personal mobility and independent living; right to health, work and education; and participation in political and cultural life. The treaty will enter into force when ratified by 20 countries.

Many of these issues are also covered in MSIF's Principles to Promote the Quality of Life of People with MS, which can be downloaded free by clicking here.

For more details about the convention, please click on the link below.