Making Youth Programs Accessible for Youth with Disabilities Starter Kit

There are more than one billion persons with disabilities around the world - that’s at least 15% of the global population - with at least 80% living in developing countries.  Some people are born with their disabilities, and others may acquire disabilities over the course of their lifespan.  Numerous international standards exist that are relevant to creating a world that is accessible to and inclusive of persons with disabilities on an equal basis with others - including youth with disabilities.  These standards include the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (a human rights treaty to which over 180 countries and the European Union are parties), and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (which are animated by the core principle to Leave No One Behind, including persons with disabilities).  At the national level, many countries have adopted non-discrimination legislation (like the Americans with Disabilities Act in the United States) and accessibility standards to ensure that persons with disabilities can participate fully in society.  

We all have a role to play in creating a world that respects persons with disabilities as part of the rich and diverse tapestry of humanity.  This starter kit has been compiled to give you information and easy and actionable steps on how to make your activities accessible to, and inclusive of youth with disabilities!