Digital Empowerment : Access to Information and Knowledge using ICTs for Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

UNESCO’s vision is the creation of knowledge societies that are inclusive, pluralistic, equitable, open and participatory for all citizens. Within the context of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and disability-inclusive Sustainable Development Goals, UNESCO recognizes the need to: Prepare national policies and strongly encourages local governments to introduce specific legislation to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities; define governments’ aspirations regarding services for persons with disabilities, including equal access to information and knowledge, education and the use of ICTs; develop national standards for public goods in terms of products and services, such as accessibility guidelines, recommendations, curricula and other mechanisms to ensure that these standards are maintained; build the capacity of professional communities and persons with disabilities to provide access to information and knowledge, including hard and software developers and teachers; adapt and personalize ICTs to the nature of specific disabilities, particularly for learning and teaching purposes; enhance social and economic integration through improved access to information and knowledge; collect statistical data and carry out research.