Aranchi Raala

Sri Lanka Reaffirms Commitment to Disability Rights at Global CRPD Conference

New York, June 2025 – Sri Lanka has reiterated its strong commitment to promoting the rights, dignity, and full participation of persons with disabilities at the 18th Conference of the States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Minister Dr. Upali Pannilage 

Addressing the international gathering, Hon. (Dr.) Upali Pannilage, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, emphasized that since ratifying the CRPD in 2016, Sri Lanka has taken continuous measures to bring national legislation in line with the Convention’s principles.

“The Government of Sri Lanka is committed to strengthening institutional mechanisms, raising public awareness, and encouraging meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society,” Minister Pannilage stated.

As a demonstration of its commitment to inclusivity, the government recently made history by appointing a visually impaired individual to Parliament via the National List, ensuring direct representation of persons with disabilities in legislative processes.

Legislative and Policy Advancements

Among the key measures currently underway is the drafting of a new Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, designed to create a comprehensive legal framework aligned with CRPD standards. The proposed legislation aims to safeguard dignity, promote equality, and facilitate the full integration of persons with disabilities into society.

A draft bill to recognize sign language is also being prepared, underscoring the importance of accessible communication for the hearing-impaired community.

In addition, existing accessibility regulations are under review, with new policies being drafted to reflect modern needs and global best practices. The government is also preparing to launch a nationwide data collection initiative on persons with disabilities, intended to support evidence-based policymaking and more targeted social programs.

Minister Pannilage further noted that Sri Lanka is currently updating its national disability policy and formulating a comprehensive national action plan to address the evolving needs of persons with disabilities in a holistic manner.

MP Sugath Wasantha De Silva

Inclusive Services and Employment Support

To improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities, the government continues to provide comprehensive assistance programs across housing, healthcare, education, employment, and accessibility. These services are designed to foster independence and ensure full societal inclusion.

Special attention is being given to inclusive employment, with initiatives such as job matching, skills development, career guidance, and support during the recruitment process. Collaborative efforts with employers are also being pursued to open more sustainable and inclusive job opportunities.

Digital Accessibility and Global Engagement

As part of efforts to promote digital inclusion, Circular No. 11/2024 was recently issued, mandating all government institutions to use Unicode-compliant fonts on official websites and digital platforms, thereby ensuring accessibility for all users.

Sri Lanka’s role as the President of this year’s CRPD Conference was highlighted as a symbol of its ongoing leadership in advocating for disability rights on the global stage. Minister Pannilage stressed that promoting awareness about the contributions of persons with disabilities is central to achieving sustainable and inclusive development.

“A truly inclusive society can only be built through sustained collaboration, mutual respect, and the active participation of all stakeholders, including persons with disabilities themselves,” he said. “As we approach the Second World Summit for Social Development later this year, it is vital that we address structural barriers, including those linked to disability, through education and awareness.”

Minister Pannilage concluded by reaffirming Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to the full implementation of the CRPD, calling on the international community to work collectively to build a world where no one is left behind.

Aranchi Rala (News Guy) 2025.06.11