National Conference 2012
The National CBID Network Pakistan organized the first National Conference on Community Based Inclusive Development on December 24, 2012, in Islamabad. Themed “Inclusive Development – Right for All,” the event brought together 120 delegates, including representatives from NGOs, Disabled Persons’ Organizations (DPOs), government officials, and international donors.
Key Highlights
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Objective: To sensitize stakeholders on the rights of persons with disabilities and foster networking to incorporate inclusive practices into national policies and programs.
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Website Launch: The conference marked the official launch of the CBID Network Pakistan website, designed as a collaborative platform for members to share data, reports, and progress.
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Global Integration: Mr. Ghulam Nabi Nizamani discussed international CBR developments, noting that the network connects Pakistan to global movements like the CBR Asia Pacific Congress.
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Livelihood Initiatives: The LCDDP announced the launch of an employment web portal to bridge the gap between job seekers with disabilities and employers.
Major Recommendations (Islamabad Declaration)
The conference concluded with a series of strategic recommendations to empower the estimated 15% of the population living with disabilities in Pakistan:
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Policy & Legislation: Establishing a National Coordinating Committee on Cross Disability at federal and provincial levels and harmonizing local legislation with the UNCRPD.
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Political Participation: A call for all political parties to include disability in their manifestos and for the Election Commission of Pakistan to ensure accessible voting processes.
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Inclusive Education: Endorsing the implementation of Article 25-A of the Constitution to ensure all children with disabilities are included in the free and compulsory education system.
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Monitoring: The CBID Network committed to developing a shadow report on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the United Nations.
Supporting Partners
The event was supported by several international and national organizations, including CBM, WHO, PPAF, JICA, LCDDP, Sightsavers, CHIP, and Chef International.
“This network is not just a way to connect; it is a movement for all, and it must be carried on to remove attitudinal barriers.” — Muhammad Shafiq-ur-Rehman, Punjab Provincial Coordinator.