New York, USA – From June 8 to 12, Italy is taking a leading role at the 18th Annual Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, held at the UN Headquarters in New York.
Italy’s official opening was marked by a performance from the “Si può fare Band”, an inclusive music group that performed today outside the UN Glass Palace, setting a powerful tone for the country’s participation.
Tomorrow, during the plenary session, Italy’s Minister for Disabilities, Alessandra Locatelli, will outline national policies focused on inclusion, including Italy’s ongoing disability reform.
On June 11, Italy will host two side events. The first, titled “Leisure Time, Life Time”, will gather international experts and representatives from the Third Sector to explore the role of recreational activities in promoting autonomy and inclusion.
The second event, “The Right to a Full and Participatory Life”, will be an interactive workshop, featuring live demonstrations of artistic and occupational activities designed for and with people with disabilities.
On June 12, Minister Locatelli will take part in an event organized by the League of Arab States, addressing how entrepreneurship and innovative finance can support persons with disabilities globally.
“We’re bringing to the UN the message that leisure time is not a luxury, but a tool for autonomy and self-realization,” said Locatelli. “We do this through the tireless work of associations and organizations that place the person at the center of everything.”