A Historic Day for People with Intellectual Disabilities

The opening of the 17th session of the UN CRPD Committee in Geneva marks the historical debut of Robert Martin’s tenure as a member of the Committee.

Robert, elected in June 2016 at the 10th Conference of States Parties, is the first person with an intellectual disability to be elected to the Committee.

Robert is an independent expert on the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities. His leadership and knowledge on key issues like closing institutions and supporting people to live in their communities will have significant impact on the Committee.

Inclusion International calls on the Committee and its secretariat to demonstrate inclusive practices, including by making materials available in plain language.

Today, we celebrate Robert and offer him our heartfelt best wishes for a successful committee meeting.