The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2026, renewing its mission to advance the inclusion and rights of persons with disabilities and to turn words into commitment and reality.

From 9 to 11 June 2026, the nineteenth session of the Conference of States Parties to the CRPD (COSP19) took place under the theme: "CRPD at 20: Celebrating and consolidating achievements and shaping the next phase of implementation in a changing world." COSP19 offered a significant opportunity to create a framework for dialogue and to advance solutions for overcoming the barriers that persons with disabilities continue to face and that risk deepening their exclusion. Indeed, over the past two decades, countries have strengthened legal protections and promoted accessibility and inclusion in education and in the participation of persons with disabilities in public and political life. Nonetheless, the global sustainable development agenda must keep in mind the key role of disability inclusion in achieving genuine social justice.

The central leadership of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations remains essential to shaping a meaningful impact. Precisely significant was the Civil Society Forum, held on Monday, 8 June, an opportunity to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities and facilitate their adequate and active participation, welcoming speakers from a variety of sectors and prioritizing civil society organizations.

More information is available on the dedicated web page.