Over the past few years, the promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities has become more visible in UNFPA's programmatic work.

Historically, persons with disabilities have been marginalized, stigmatized and deprived of opportunities and freedoms. Studies show that persons with disabilities are up to three times more likely to be victims of physical and sexual abuse, and are at increased risk of HIV and AIDS.

Often times with limited resources and capacities, but driven by strong motivation, UNFPA country offices work to generate the evidence-base on the particular marginalization faced by persons with disabilities so that we can better advocate for policy and social change.

In operational terms, UNFPA promotes the rights of persons with disabilities in three main areas:
 
1) Promoting the ratification of the Convention and the development of national capacities for the protection of the reproductive rights of persons with disabilities.

2) Ensuring the visibility of persons with disabilities in national censuses, socioeconomic surveys and administrative data systems.

3) Mainstreaming disability rights in national legal and policy frameworks with a focus on SRH, HIV prevention and treatment, and gender-based violence.

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