New expert network on disability in Asia
The project, Disability and SOGI: Intersectionality, Multiple Identities, Cumulative Discrimination has focused on local empowerment and engagement, and offered numerous training workshops throughout the project cycle. More than 50 participants from 17 countries took part in the trainings, and a new network of NGOs, academics and researchers who focus on issues of discrimination, disability, and SOGI was born. Experts and civil society representatives from Norway, as well as UN special rapporteur Gerard Quinn, have contributed to the trainings. Evaluations show that the participants have benefited from NCHR's support to this new network of experts dedicated to addressing issues of discrimination, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity in Asia. The engagements have resulted in a book, highlighting some of the experiences:
“Voices of women and LGBTQ individuals with disabilities in Asian countries are often silenced and invisible. This project has given a platform to see our single stories in a structural perspective. Many of the authors are individuals with disabilities themselves, which gives the book authenticity, a unique perspective and access to the material,” says Yijun Liu, one of the book editors and a researcher at Wuhan University, who has collaborated with NCHR to design this project.
The project provided many opportunities for knowledge development among civil society organisations engaged in the issue, including writing workshops, meetings, lectures, and group discussions. Scholars and disability rights organizations in different Asian countries such as China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Nepal, and Japan have contributed to the book.
Book exploring Disability, Sexuality, and Gender in Asia
By featuring contributions from scholars, disability rights organizations, and human rights advocates from various Asian countries, the book provides a unique perspective on the lived experiences of disabled individuals.
“One of the strengths of this project is the collaboration and knowledge exchange among different advocacy groups. In particular, disability groups can learn from women's rights and gender equality groups when it comes to addressing issues related to sexuality. These groups have been at the forefront of promoting the recognition of women's needs in areas such as sexuality, education, services, and decision-making. The experiences and achievements of these groups can inspire individuals with disabilities to embrace and express their own sexuality, identity, and experiences,” says Professor Ding Peng, one of the book's editors.
The book acts as a preliminary introduction to the frontline practice of Asian disability advocacy, emphasizing the experiences of women and LGBTIQ individuals with disabilities. It sheds light on their efforts to realize their rights, identity, sexual orientation and personal safety.
“It is important to recognize that people with disabilities also have their own sexuality with varieties of orientations and gender identities. Many face different challenges in expressing themselves or finding acceptance in society, but we deserve the same respect and support as anyone else” emphasizes Peng Yujiao, who is one of the contributing authors of the book.
Furthermore, the book explores strategies for empowerment, promoting diversity and advocating for equality and non-discrimination. It also highlights the leverage that the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) provides for advancing human rights campaigns, particularly for marginalized and disadvantaged groups.
Successful Book Launch Event in Seoul
On October 27, 2023, the book was launched in connection with the East Asia Disability Studies Forum 2023 in Seoul. The event welcomed presentations by book editors, and contributors. Professor Ding Peng highlights the importance of looking at intersectionality and overlapping discrimination as a way to advance disability rights. He stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to promote inclusivity. Professor Peng continued:
“East Asia and Southeast Asia are confronting very different cultures and realities, but we share similar challenges. It's through these exchanges that we can go beyond our daily experience and look at the issues of human rights, disability rights and equality in a structural way”.
He added that while not everyone was able to contribute to the book, due to strict criteria for academic writing, their involvement in the process has nevertheless been crucial. The book is part of an equal partnership among the participants, where they had the opportunity to exchange experiences and learn from each other.
Other speakers at the book launch emphasized the significance of amplifying the voices of women with disabilities, often marginalized in discussions on disability. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between academia and civil society as well as across national borders.
“This is a very important book in so many ways. It is the first of its kind. It gives voice to civil society organisations and it is an important contribution to disability studies in Asia,” says Cecilie Figenschou Bakke, Programme Director at NCHR.
Bassel Hatoum, an advisor at the NCHR and himself an expert on LGBTQ rights issues, gave insights from ongoing discussions on sexuality and gender in Europe and emphasised how this new book will help readers understand what debates are currently taking place in Asia. The book provides a valuable and unique perspective on the lived experiences of disabled individuals in the region.
The book launch highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange across borders. The NCHR thanks all the participants, civil society workers, and academics who contributed to the success of this project. The NCHR will remain committed to promoting equality in all of its implemented projects.