We are people first, and only secondly do we have a disability. What makes us disadvantaged are the obstacles we face in society and its physical, social, economic, cultural and political structures. We look to this summit to break down the barriers to our full participation and equality. All the themes of this summit are highly relevant to us. We are the poorest of the poor in most societies.
Disability increases poverty and poverty increases disability.
It is women who bear a particular burden of poverty, both as care givers and as disabled persons. Two thirds of disabled people are estimated to be without employment. Social exclusion and isolation are the day to day experiences of disabled persons. Too many must live in institutions. We cannot and we will not tolerate such conditions any longer.