Championing Accessibility in Commonwealth Parliaments: An Overview of Efforts and Initiatives
About the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association | Written on September, 2023
Introduction
The Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network under the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) plays a pivotal role in addressing the accessibility challenges faced by parliamentarians with disabilities. This essay explores the network's objectives, history, and initiatives, shedding light on the imperative for accessibility in parliaments across the Commonwealth nations.
Historical Background and Formation
Established in 2018, the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network originated from the inaugural Conference of Parliamentarians with Disabilities in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This gathering united 30 to 40 parliamentarians with disabilities, setting the stage for structured collaboration and knowledge-sharing. The network is one of three significant branches of the CPA, standing shoulder to shoulder with the Commonwealth Women's Parliamentarians Network and the Small Branches Network.
Mission and Vision
The Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network's strategic plan, formulated in 2021, articulates its mission: to stimulate Commonwealth parliaments to empower comprehensive participation of persons with disabilities at every echelon. This mission, although distinct, complements the CPA's broader vision of advancing knowledge in parliamentary democracy's multifaceted dimensions.
Membership and Inclusivity
The Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network's membership is not merely restricted to legislators with disabilities from CPA member parliaments; it also extends to parliamentary staff. A significant emphasis is placed on inclusivity, recognising that definitions of disability can vary across jurisdictions. The network adopts a holistic definition, aligned with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which accounts for diverse impairments that might hinder an individual's equitable societal participation.
The Capital Investment Fund
Introduced in 2021 with a capital of sixty thousand pounds, this fund is a testament to the network's commitment to fostering accessibility. It finances initiatives that enhance physical accessibility and assistive technology procurement in parliaments. Some of the successful projects include Jamaica's restroom modifications for improved accessibility and the Isle of Man's accessibility audit, resulting in significant infrastructural adaptations.
Technological Advancements and Innovation
Given the digital age, technology is a cornerstone of accessibility. The network, in collaboration with member parliaments, has been harnessing technology to make parliamentary proceedings more accessible. For instance, assisting the Montserrat parliament in broadcasting online live proceedings ensures that even those unable to physically attend can still participate in democratic processes.
Educational Initiatives and Publications
The Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network recognises the power of knowledge. Through the Parliamentary Academy, they launched the "Making Parliaments Accessible for Persons with Disabilities" course, concentrating on communication strategies, altering perceptions, and understanding international frameworks. Furthermore, the network has published various guides and toolkits, like the Disability-Inclusive Communications guidelines and the Mental Health toolkit, as resources for member parliaments.
Conclusion
The Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network, under the aegis of the CPA, is a beacon for inclusivity and accessibility in parliamentary settings. Through its various initiatives, funds, and educational undertakings, it not only champions the rights of parliamentarians with disabilities but also paves the way for a more inclusive and accessible democratic process across the Commonwealth nations.