United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Introduction

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (PDF format) has entered into force for the People's Republic of China (PRC), including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on 31 August 2008.

The purpose of the Convention is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity. Persons with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.

As Hong Kong citizens, we all have equal responsibilities to implement the Convention. Through a series of public education and promotion activities, we strongly encourage all Hong Kong citizens to promote and effectuate the essence of the Convention together with the Government, in order to create a barrier free society where persons with disabilities can pursue their goals, dreams, and live freely without discrimination.

In accordance with Article 35 of the Convention, PRC (including HKSAR) periodically submits to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities reports on measures taken to give effect to its obligations under the Convention and on the progress made. PRC’s initial report (including HKSAR’s part) was submitted to the Committee in 2010. PRC’s second and third combined reports (including HKSAR’s combined reports) were submitted to the Committee in 2018.

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