Priority 1

Priority 1 – Inclusion as a priority issue in the political agenda of all countries

The social inclusion of persons with disabilities must be a cross-sectional priority in the policies of every country, guaranteeing the full exercise of rights in all aspects of life: from political participation to education, from work to culture, from personal relationships to mobility. Persons with disabilities - and particularly women, girls and boys - are often subject to multiple forms of discrimination: for this reason, the G7 Governments are committed to adopting all necessary measures to guarantee equal opportunities, autonomy and full recognition of the talents and skills of everyone.

In order for inclusion to be effective, an integrated and collaborative approach is essential, actively involving not only institutions but also communities, the private sector, the academic world, civil society and – above all – persons with disabilities and their representative organisations. Inclusion policies must be in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and based upon clear strategies, both nationally and internationally.

The G7 nations are also committed to bringing the issue of inclusion into other relevant international contexts, such as the G20, and to promoting a widespread culture of respect, awareness and information on the rights of persons with disabilities. Finally, they emphasise the importance of continuously monitoring the progress achieved, in constant dialogue with organisations representing persons with disabilities, to truly transform policies into practical changes in everyday life.