Amman: The Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jordan, recently organized a consultative workshop in the Kingdom's Southern Region. The workshop aimed to enhance the political participation and representation of persons with disabilities within the local governance system.
According to Jordan News Agency, this event was part of the initiative titled "Strengthening the Voices of Persons with Disabilities for Inclusive Local Governance," which is supported by the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark. The workshop gathered approximately 90 participants, including persons with disabilities, representatives from disability organizations, members of the Senate and the Lower House of Representatives, as well as public and private sector institutions and experts from various governorates in the Southern Region.
The workshop primarily focused on addressing the legislative, institutional, and environmental challenges that hinder the political participation and representation of persons with disabilities in local councils. The session provided a platform for participants to share their opinions, experiences, and priorities, facilitating the development of practical recommendations aimed at creating a more inclusive and rights-responsive local governance system.
Participants engaged in discussions on policy development, legislative reforms, and program enhancements to improve coordination and integration among stakeholders. The workshop underscored the important roles of government agencies and national institutions in promoting the political engagement of persons with disabilities.
The HCD emphasized that the ultimate goal of this initiative is to build a local governance system that is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the rights and needs of persons with disabilities, ensuring their full participation in local decision-making processes. UNDP Resident Representative in Jordan, Randa Abu Hassan, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that the engagement of persons with disabilities in local governance goes beyond representation, aiming to create responsive and effective institutions. She emphasized that participation is an inherent right and a prerequisite for achieving sustainable development and good governance.