The LAC region is characterized by sharp inequalities and shrinking space for civil society organisations (CSOs) which call for urgent equal, just and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities through their representative organizations (DPOs) in all stages of decision-making processes.  

In LAC, the UN CRPD has already been ratified by 28 countries and has generated an unprecedented dynamic of social and public policy transformations. The focus now is on the importance of practical implementation of the UN CRPD, including through related projects in the region, in order to strengthen the rights of persons with disabilities and participation of DPOs.

A number of programmes and activities are organised between Latin America and the EU. EDF keeps a close eye on the Human Rights Dialogues, which are organised by the EU in partner countries. These dialogues are a key vehicle for the implementation of the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy.

The EU Action Plan is important for EDF as it is inclusive of the CRPD and persons with disabilities. We are therefore encouraging organisations of persons with disabilities (DPOs) to take part in these Human Rights Dialogues and influence the EU to implement the CRPD in its work in humanitarian action and international cooperation. 

A New Agenda for EU relations with Latin America and the Caribbean: In February 2023, EDF, together with RIADIS, participated in the EU consultation providing joint feedback to the call for evidence. The feedback contains recommendations regarding the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the EU-LAC strategic relationship to fight discrimination and inequality.