The Saaya Association has been actively engaged in advocacy efforts since the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) by governments. As an organization of persons with disabilities (OPD), we are committed to ensuring that the rights enshrined in the convention are respected, protected, and fulfilled for individuals with disabilities. We also strive to empower them to understand their rights under the UNCRPD and advocate for their full inclusion and participation in society.

Our organization provides comprehensive support, resources, and training to enable individuals to assert their rights effectively. We work collaboratively with other stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and international bodies, to advance the objectives of the UNCRPD. To this end, we actively participate in various forums, conferences, and consultations to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and coordinate actions.

Our efforts are aimed at promoting the full and equal participation of individuals with disabilities in society, while emphasizing the importance of their fundamental rights. As such, we remain committed to our advocacy efforts to ensure that the UNCRPD is implemented, monitored, and enforced to the fullest extent possible.

Capacity Building for Individuals with Disabilities and OPDs on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The Saaya Association is dedicated to enhancing the capacity of individuals with disabilities and their organizations to effectively participate in advocating for the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) at both the federal and provincial levels. This includes providing training on various aspects, such as advocacy skills, disability rights awareness, independent living, and leadership development. By equipping individuals and organizations with these essential skills, the Saaya Association aims to empower them to contribute to the ongoing efforts to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

Impact:

Many individuals with disabilities have established new self-help organizations (SHOs) and organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) in their respective native areas after receiving training. Some OPDs have even established independent living centres and are functioning as service providers.

Promoting Rights Through Seminars in Educational Institutions:

Our ongoing project involves the coordination and management of seminars and events at universities in twin cities with the aim of engaging students in promoting awareness and inclusivity towards Persons with Disabilities in the Rights-Based Development Process. Through these sessions, we strive to address the fact that the youth represent 60% of our population and are the future of our nation. Therefore, consultative meetings, workshops, and seminars serve as valuable tools to raise awareness among young people about disability inclusion and to inform them of their roles and responsibilities in ensuring the rights of people with disabilities as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Our main objective is to foster an understanding of the importance of disability inclusion among the youth, empowering them to take an active role in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.

Impact:

Most universities now adhere to accessibility standards and actively welcome students with disabilities. University management encourages students to pursue internships or community work related to disability rights during their studies.

Advocating for Legislation Alignment with UNCRPD at Provincial and National Levels

Saaya Association, a member of the Community Based Inclusive Development Network (CBIDN), is actively participating in advocacy efforts to promote new rights-based legislation at both provincial and national levels. These initiatives are being carried out in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). To support these efforts, Saaya Association is collaborating with Sightsavers and HANDS, two organizations that share its commitment to community-based inclusive development. Through its contributions to these initiatives, Saaya Association is helping to promote the of individuals with disabilities, and to build a more equitable and inclusive society.

Impact:

• The Baluchistan Persons with Disabilities Act was enacted in 2017, followed by the Sindh Disability Act passed by the provincial legislative assembly in 2018.”
• “The Gilgit-Baltistan Persons with Disabilities Act was approved by the legislative assembly in August 2019, while the Sindh PWDs Empowerment and Rights Protection Bill was introduced in 2019.”
• “In 2020, the Islamabad Capital Territory passed the ‘Rights of Persons with Disability Act.’ Subsequently, the Punjab Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act was approved in January 2023.”
• “Efforts were made towards the inclusion of disability surveys in the census of 2017 and the National Disability Survey, scheduled to be included in the Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) survey for 2019-2020.”
• “Legislation regarding reserved seats for persons with disabilities passed through the Standing Committee.”
• “The Government of Sindh established a Department for Persons with Disabilities.”
• “The PSLM for 2019-2020 included a National Disability Survey Module, with 12 training sessions conducted at the provincial level to educate Masters Trainers/Surveyors on disability understanding and the Washington Group questionnaire.

Participation in Drafting and Submitting Shadow Reports on UNCRPD

As a member of the National Network CBIDN, we have contributed to submitting shadow reports to relevant UN bodies. These reports aim to provide independent assessments of the progress and challenges faced, with the support of Sightsaver. Our involvement in this initiative reflects our commitment towards advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and promoting sustainable development globally. By engaging in such efforts, we hope to contribute towards building a more equitable and just world for all.

Observance of World Disability and Women’s Days:

Saaya Association annually observes World Disability Day and International Women’s Day as part of its commitment to achieving the 2030 Agenda’s pledge to leave no one behind, including persons with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups. Recognizing disability as a cross-cutting issue, it is integrated into the implementation of all its goals. The association organizes seminars, sports activities, and engages with local communities, government officials, universities, parliamentarians, and students to raise awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities.

Provision of Customized Assistive Devices:

Saaya Association also provides customized assistive devices with the support of the local community, local philanthropies, CSR initiatives, and organizations dedicated to persons with disabilities. The purpose of distributing wheelchairs is to foster independence among individuals with disabilities and ensure their mobility. By enhancing their mobility, they can engage in more activities to work towards achieving the goals outlined in the UNCRPD.