UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Adopted by the United Nations in 2006, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is a landmark international treaty that affirms the equal rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. It marks a global shift from viewing disability as a matter of charity or medical concern to recognizing it as a human rights issue rooted in equality, participation, and justice. In education, the CRPD’s Article 24 is especially significant.

It obliges countries to ensure inclusive education systems at all levels, guaranteeing that learners with disabilities are not excluded from general education. The Convention calls for accessible environments, trained teachers, individualized support, and the removal of barriers that prevent full participation. It remains the guiding global standard for nations, including Nepal, in building inclusive and equitable education systems.