Biotechnological change must not be an excuse for control or manipulation of the human condition or bio-diversity. We recognise that the only way to ensure universal support for and positive recognition of our particular qualities is through stating our right to diversity clearly, with good arguments, in open and democratic discussion. We must form alliances with scientists, the medical professions, ethicists, policy-makers, human rights advocates, the media and the general public. All Human Beings are born free and equal in Dignity and Rights Human rights are the responsibility of the state as well as the individual. Disabled people, our organisations, families and allies must work to ensure that international, regional and national legal instruments include the implementation of rights throughout all scientific advances and medical practices concerning the human genome, reproduction, assessments of quality of life, therapeutic measures and alleviation of 'pain and suffering'.
Biotechnology presents particular risks for disabled people.
The fundamental rights of disabled people, particularly the right to life, must be protected. That disabled people have assistance to live - not assistance to die That having a disabled child is not a special legal consideration for abortion That no demarcation lines are drawn regarding severity or types of impairment. This creates hierarchies and leads to increased discrimination of disabled people generally. Disabled people must join together in solidarity to ensure our voices in these life-threatening issues.