2 weeks to go…

On 3rd December 2011, the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, MSIF will present the petition for access to appropriate work to several key decision makers.

This year marks 5 years since the adoption of the UN Convention on the rights of disabled persons. Since the introduction of the convention in 2009 106 countries have ratified the convention, and 63 have ratified the optional protocol, paving the way for many positive steps towards enabling people with disabilities around the world to live full lives, free from discrimination.

Article 27 of the convention refers specifically to the right to work and states that;

‘States Parties recognize the right of persons with disabilities to work, on an equal basis with others; this includes the right to the opportunity to gain a living by work freely chosen or accepted in a labour market and work environment that is open, inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities. States Parties shall safeguard and promote the realization of the right to work, including for those who acquire a disability during the course of employment, by taking appropriate steps, including through legislation… ‘

 

Despite ‘the right to work’ being clearly set out as a fundamental human right in both this convention, and in the UN Convention on Human Rights, many people with MS find that there are barriers that prevent them from finding and staying in work. Surveys of people with MS in 2010 found that many of these barriers could be overcome with simple low cost solutions such as designating a place to rest during the day, offering flexible working, and making workspaces more accessible. A survey of employers and managers in 2011 found that very few workplaces had policies in place that might enable a person with MS to stay in work.

Sign the petition

So far we have more than 17,000 signatures on the petition, but we need more signatures to really make an impact when we present it on the 3rd December.

By signing the petition, you will be joining a global movement of campaigners who are working together to improve the lives of people with MS. Join us by signing now.

Don’t forget to check back for more news in the run up to the presentation. We will be releasing details of who we are meeting with soon.