Press release 112/2016
10.6.2016
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol will enter into force for Finland today on 10 June 2016. Finland deposited its instrument of ratification with the UN Secretary General on 11 May 2016.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Timo Soini considers the entry into force of the Convention and its Protocol a significant step in strengthening the status of the rights of persons with disabilities. At the same time it underscores the state's obligation to promote these rights.
Minister Soini emphasises that it is particularly important that persons with disabilities are engaged in and heard in matters that concern them: "It is essential to take care that the most vulnerable are also heard both in Finland and in other countries. The work of the coordination group for international disability policy under the Ministry for Foreign Affairs is one way to strengthen the participation of persons with disabilities in the preparation of Finland's foreign and security policy."
Finland has actively discussed the rights of persons with disabilities in, for example, the UN and the OSCE. Finland also provides financial support to, among other things, the UN Partnership to Promote the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) and the activities of the Special Representative to promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
"The Convention will enter into force and the work will continue on the same lines as the close partnership with Finnish and international disability organisations and associations," Minister Soini underlines on the day when the Convention enters into force.
Inquiries: Janina Hasenson, Legal Counsellor, Unit for Human Rights Policy, tel. +358 295 351 902 and Satu Sistonen, Legal Officer, Unit for Human Rights Courts and Conventions, tel. +358 295 351 789
