United Nations Radio

The United States has become the latest country to sign a landmark UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The ceremony took place at UN headquarters on Thursday afternoon.

woman in a wheelchair

Amidst the whirr of photographers' cameras, Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to US President Barack Obama, observed that the event was a "historic step" by her country towards advancing its global commitment to all persons with disabilities.

"With this signing we once again confirm that disability rights are not just civil rights to be enforced here at home, but they are universal human rights to be promoted around the world. So we proudly join the international community in protecting human rights for all."

Ms. Jarrett also announced the creation of a new senior level post in the State Department. The appointee will promote the rights of disabled people internationally.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities came into force in May 2008. It marks a "paradigm shift" in attitudes to persons with disabilities, and reaffirms that they are to enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

More than 140 nations have signed on to the Convention.

Dianne Penn, UN Radio.

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