The Conference of States Parties (COSP) to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) serves as a crucial platform for global dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy in the field of disability rights. 

Our members’ participation at COSP16 is an incredible opportunity to contribute to the advancement of disability rights worldwide. 

In this blog post, we will explore how you can effectively engage with the events at COSP16, ensuring that your voice is heard, and your perspectives are represented

1. Understand the COSP16 Agenda

Before diving into the events, take some time to familiarise yourself with the agenda of COSP16. This will help you identify the sessions, workshops, and side events that align with your interests and expertise. 

You can read an easy explainer about the Conference of State Parties by clicking here

We’ve taken the time to explain the themes of COSP in easy-to-understand language below:

Main theme: Attendees will talk about how countries are making sure the rules and laws in their country match the CRPD. 

Sub theme 1: Attendees will focus on making sure people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else when using sexual and reproductive health services.

Sub theme 2: Governments will discuss making digital things easy to use for people with disabilities.

Sub theme 3: Participants will talk about including and involving people with disabilities who are often left out. People with intellectual disabilities are often left out, so this is an important sub-theme for Inclusion International.

For full details on the themes of this year’s COSP click here. There are concept papers written for each sub theme, but please not that they are not accessible or in easy-to-understand language.

Our members’ participation at COSP16 is an incredible opportunity to contribute to the advancement of disability rights worldwide. 

2. Participate in the Half-Day Meeting on Easy-to-Understand Communication

On 12 June, a half-day meeting dedicated to easy-to-understand communication will occur alongside COSP. It will also take place at the United Nations Headquarters.

This event is about making information easier to understand for people with disabilities. 

States and organisations will discuss why accessible information and communication are important and share examples of how we can include everyone.

Inclusion International will be participating at this event. We’ll have a team of representatives to listen to and participate in the discussion. We will also be sharing information about the Listen Include Respect guidelines.

3. Engage with the Civil Society Forum

The Civil Society Forum is an important part of COSP. Civil society refers to groups of people who come together voluntarily to work towards common goals, outside of the government and business.

This Forum will provide additional space for civil society to make its own contributions, and allow civil society to share and capture important issues.

The event offers a unique opportunity to network, learn from others, and strengthen partnerships, ultimately enhancing the impact of your advocacy efforts.

Here is a short video about the Civil Society Forum

4. Make the Most of Side Events

Our network is heavily involved at side-events at COSP.

A side-event is a smaller meeting or presentation that happens alongside the main conference. It’s an opportunity for different groups to talk about specific topics and share ideas.

Attending and actively participating in side-events will expand your understanding of various perspectives and foster valuable connections.

For our list of side-events that we are involved with or featuring speakers from our membership at check out our guide to COSP16. For a full list of side-events, click here.

Engage with relevant hashtags like #COSP16 or #CRPD, tag fellow members and organisations, and encourage others to join the conversation. 

5. Join the Conversation Online

In the digital age, social media plays a powerful role in raising awareness and amplifying voices. 

Utilise platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to share updates, key messages, and follow the highlights from COSP16. 

Engage with relevant hashtags like #COSP16 or #CRPD, tag fellow members and organisations, and encourage others to join the conversation. 

By leveraging social media, you can extend the reach of your advocacy efforts and connect with a broader audience.

6. Network and Collaborate

COSP16 is an excellent opportunity to build relationships and collaborate with individuals and organisations working towards similar goals. 

Take advantage of coffee breaks, social events, and side meetings to connect with fellow participants, government representatives, and UN officials. 

Building these connections can lead to future collaborations, sharing of resources, and collective advocacy efforts.

Take advantage of coffee breaks, social events, and side meetings to connect with fellow participants, government representatives, and UN officials. 

Your engagement with the events at COSP16 is essential in shaping global disability policies and promoting the rights of people with intellectual disabilities. 

By participating, sharing your experiences, and advocating for inclusive practices, you contribute to the collective effort of creating a more inclusive and equitable world.