IGF 2020 WS #322 Digital Accessibility and the Sustainable Development Goals

Information

Session

Thematic Track:

Topic(s):

Organizer 1: Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Organizer 2: Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)

Speaker 1: Axel Leblois, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 2: Mohammed Ali Loufty, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 3: Francesca Cesa Bianchi, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)

Format:

Round Table - U-shape - 60 Min

Description:

The Global Initiative for Inclusive ICTs (G3ict) and Disabled People’s International (DPI) will stage a discussion of Internet Governance opportunities based on the results of the 2020 Digital Accessibility Rights Evaluation (DARE) Index. The DARE Index, based on data collected by organizations of persons with disabilities in 151 countries, covers 91% of the world population. Examples of good policies and practices by governments, education institutions and the private sector will ensue to illustrate the benefits of digital inclusion strategies for persons with disabilities on realizing the SDG objectives.

Issues:

Unrestricted access to digital devices, contents, information and services is a necessary condition for persons with disabilities to enjoy their full rights. Article 9 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities obligates its 181 States Parties to ensure that information and communication technologies, which support everything digital, are made accessible.

Policy Question(s):

- Which are the essential laws and regulations required to translate at national level the digital accessibility dispositions of the CRPD? (Commitments) - Which are the essential success factors in terms of capacity to implement those dispositions? (Capacity to implement) - How successful are countries in making progress in implementing digital accessibility in key areas of technology, such as the Web? (Outcomes)

Expected Outcomes:

Webinar series for advocates, policy makers, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities, and government agencies dedicated to disability inclusion.

Relevance to Internet Governance: Reducing the digital divide, reducing inequalities and discrimination in Internet access. Ensuring accessibility, digital skills for everyone.

Relevance to Theme: The DARE Index is a unique resource to measure the degree to which countries implement digital inclusion for persons with disabilities in 151 countries, covering 91% of the world population.

Discussion Facilitation:

Presentation followed by country examples related to the DARE Index, Q/A from audience and remote participants.

Online Participation:

Usage of IGF Official Tool. Additional Tools proposed: Social media for virtual participation.

SDGs:

GOAL 1: No Poverty
GOAL 4: Quality Education
GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
GOAL 10: Reduced Inequalities
GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
GOAL 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
GOAL 17: Partnerships for the Goals