The recent meeting in Geneva highlighted the importance of integrating disability inclusion into global trade discussions. The event, hosted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), gathered trade experts, civil society organizations, and representatives from disability groups to discuss strategies for making trade more inclusive for persons with disabilities.
Celeste Drake, Deputy Director-General of the ILO, emphasized that "disability-inclusive trade is a relatively new topic that has often been overlooked in broader discussions of inclusive trade." She expressed hope that the event would inspire Member States to prioritize this issue in trade-related dialogues.
Participants at the meeting called for countries to incorporate disability considerations into their trade policies. Angela Ellard, Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), noted that "with the necessary leadership, dedication, and a strong and consistent focus on inclusion, trade can be a powerful tool for driving equality." She mentioned specific actions members could take, such as removing duties on products designed to assist persons with disabilities.
A panel discussion featuring representatives from Finland and South Africa and Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), focused on opportunities like South Africa's upcoming G20 presidency. Mxolisi Nkosi, South African ambassador to Geneva, stressed the potential impact of adopting international accessibility standards and universal design principles.
Nkosi also highlighted research by Marzia Fontana and Sophie Mitra that outlines how improved access to assistive technologies could transform lives. He stated that embracing these recommendations could enhance access to essential goods for people in developing nations.
Zimbabwe's recent policy change eliminating tariffs on 55 essential assistive products was recognized as a significant advancement. Rasak Adekoya from Sightsavers discussed how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could boost local production of assistive devices, thus reducing reliance on imports. He pointed out that currently only 5% to 15% of people with disabilities in Africa have access to such technologies due to high costs.
Rebeca Grynspan from UNCTAD emphasized the diversity among persons with disabilities and their right to societal participation. Markus Heydemann from Finland underscored the need for enthusiastic support from Member States to advance this agenda.
Dorothy Tembo of the International Trade Centre (ITC) concluded by advocating for a shift in perspective regarding disability inclusion in trade. She urged viewing it as an economic imperative rather than merely a medical issue.
The Inter-Agency Technical Working Group on Trade and Disability Inclusion aims to promote this integration within global trade policies and support governments' efforts in this direction.