A/65/12/Add.1
II.
Work of the sixty-first session
11. As the basis for the general debate, the High Commissioner delivered an opening
statement, the text of which is available on UNHCR’s website (www.unhcr.org). Prior to the
High Commissioner’s statement, the Executive Committee heard a pre-recorded message from
the Secretary-General. 1
12. A summary of the ensuing general debate, delivered by the Chairman, is contained in
Annex III.
III. Conclusion and decisions of the Executive Committee
A.
Conclusion on refugees with disabilities and other persons
with disabilities protected and assisted by UNHCR
13. The Executive Committee,
Emphasizing that this Conclusion applies to refugees with disabilities and other
persons with disabilities protected and assisted by UNHCR in accordance with the
provisions of international conventions and relevant United Nations General Assembly
resolutions,
Taking note of its Conclusions No. 47 (XXXVIII), No. 74 (XLV), No. 105 (LVII),
No. 107 (LVIII), No. 108 (LIX) and No. 109 (LX) and the entry into force of the
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol on
3 May 2008,
Acknowledging that refugees and other persons with disabilities include those who
have long-term physical, mental, intellectual and sensory impairments, which, in
interaction with various barriers, including attitudinal and environmental barriers, may
hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others,
Recalling the recognition by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities of the inherent dignity and equality of persons with disabilities,
recognizing that disability is an evolving concept and acknowledging the valued
existing and potential contributions made by persons with disabilities to the overall
well-being and diversity of their communities,
Reaffirming the importance of mainstreaming age, gender and diversity in
identifying and responding to the views and needs of all persons with disabilities; and
taking note with appreciation of UNHCR’s involvement in the inter-agency support
group for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to support the
promotion and implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities and its Optional Protocol,
Recognizing that the specific needs of persons with disabilities are often
overlooked, especially in the early phases of humanitarian emergencies, and that they,
particularly women, children and older persons with disabilities, are exposed to
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See summary records of the session for a full account of the deliberations of the Committee,
including statements or other interventions by delegations under all agenda items, and their
comments on the conclusions and decisions, as well as summing up and closing statements by
the High Commissioner and by the Chairman.
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