Accessibility 2014, para. 38

Paragraph
Paragraph text
Articles 9 and 21 intersect on the issue of information and communication. Article 21 provides that States parties "shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities can exercise the right to freedom of expression and opinion, including the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas on an equal basis with others and through all forms of communication of their choice". It goes on to describe in detail how the accessibility of information and communication can be ensured in practice. It requires that States parties "provide information intended for the general public to persons with disabilities in accessible formats and technologies appropriate to different kinds of disabilities" (art. 21 (a)). Furthermore, it provides for "facilitating the use of sign languages, Braille, augmentative and alternative communication, and all other accessible means, modes and formats of communication of their choice by persons with disabilities in official interactions" (art. 21 (b)). Private entities that provide services to the general public, including through the Internet, are urged to provide information and services in accessible and usable formats for persons with disabilities (art. 21 (c)) and the mass media, including providers of information through the Internet, are encouraged to make their services accessible to persons with disabilities (art. 21 (d)). Article 21 also requires States parties to recognize and promote the use of sign languages, in accordance with articles 24, 27, 29 and 30 of the Convention.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Document type
General Comment / Recommendation
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
  • Equality & Inclusion
Person(s) affected
  • Persons with disabilities
Year
2014
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
CRPD General Comment No. 2, Accessibility (2014), para. 38.
Paragraph number
38