Commissioned study on the participation of persons with disabilities in climate and environmental measures

The new study explores the participation of persons with disabilities in international climate and environmental negotiations and measures. The study was commissioned as part of the development policy studies funded by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs and conducted by the Finnish University Partnership for International Development (UniPID).

The study examines the opportunities to promote the participation of persons with disabilities in climate and environmental measures. Findings from relevant literature and interviews with various actors show that strategies and action plans do not specifically mention disability and that persons with disabilities are rarely identified as drivers of change. Limited access to negotiation processes and the lack of formal mechanisms are among the factors hindering the participation of persons with disabilities in climate and biodiversity-related activities.

The study proposes some measures to promote the participation of persons with disabilities in climate and environmental action. According to the study, genuine changes could be achieved by measures such as strengthening the institutional participation of disability organisations in negotiations and ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in national climate and biodiversity plans.