We are calling on the EU to ensure that disability rights are fully reflected in the next EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy.
We presented our recommendations during the European External Action Service’s civil society consultation on 2 July. The discussion comes at an important moment, as there is no separate disability action plan for external action under the EU Disability Rights Strategy. Instead, disability rights are expected to be addressed through broader EU external action frameworks, including the Human Rights and Democracy Action Plan.
If this is the approach, disability rights must be clearly visible throughout the new Action Plan. This means concrete commitments, dedicated funding, meaningful participation of organisations of persons with disabilities, and strong monitoring and accountability.
Disability rights must not be overlooked
The next Human Rights and Democracy Action Plan post-2027 is being prepared at a time when democracy, civic space and human rights are under increasing pressure worldwide.
The EU’s external action must reflect its commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Disability inclusion should be mainstreamed across all areas of the Action Plan, while also including targeted measures to address the specific barriers faced by persons with disabilities.
The new Action Plan should ensure that disability rights are included across EU external action—from human rights dialogues and democracy support to humanitarian action, digital policies and Global Gateway investments.
We call on the EU to:
- ensure the meaningful participation of OPDs in the design, implementation and monitoring of EU external action;
- guarantee accessibility across all EU-funded programmes and initiatives;
- include clear commitments to implementing the CRPD;
- provide predictable and accessible funding for OPDs, including local organisations in partner countries; and
- introduce disability-inclusive indicators to monitor progress and strengthen accountability.
As work on the new Action Plan continues, EDF will keep working with its members and partners to ensure that disability rights remain a clear and measurable priority in the EU’s external action.