6.2.1 The UN Standard Rules
The UN Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for People with Disabilities from 1993 are not legally binding for states, but offer a basis for policymaking. Although the UN Standard Rules are addressed to nation states and hold them responsible for non-discrimination, they offer a valuable orientation for NGOs and other parties. The Standard Rules consist of 22 single rules touching three issues: Preconditions for Equal Participation, Target Areas for Equal Participation, and Implementation Measures. The UN Standard Rules call for concrete measures for people with disabilities, demand at the same time changes, and promote awareness-raising in society. Their implementation is monitored by the UN special rapporteur.
More information
Disabled People South Africa (2000): Pocket Guide on Disability Equality: An Empowerment Tool. Available at: http://www.dpsa.org.za (in the "Publications" section). Chapter 3: “The International Disability Rights Movement” and Chapter 4: “Roles of the United Nations in Promoting Disability Equity”.
United Nations (1994): The Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. New York.
Reports on the implementation of the UN Standard Rules in different countries.
