How Can a Civil Society Shadow Report Improve Accountability?

Examining Canada’s Human Rights Obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD): How Can a Civil Society Shadow Report Improve Accountability?

On Thursday 14 February 2013, at the Munk School of Global Affairs, Steve Estey, Chair of CCD’s International Committee, participated in a panel presentation along with David Shannon (Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission) and Penny Hartin (World Blind Union). Steve reviewed CCD’s recommendations to the Government of Canada regarding the CRPD.

CCD has called upon the Government of Canada to design a National Action Plan, for successful implementation of the CRPD. CCD has recommended that a detailed implementation action plan would identify necessary mechanisms for collaboration, benchmarks for monitoring and reporting, and strategies for priority areas for action the disability community has identified, including: access to disability supports, poverty alleviation, labour force participation, accessibility and inclusion and international leadership by Canada on disability issues. Through shadow reports the disability community will have the opportunity to share its perspective on both Canadian successes in advancing the status of Canadians with disabilities while at the same time acknowledge the gaps and barriers that remain.