Implementation of Article 33 CRPD in the United Kingdom: The Need to Consolidate Civil Society Engagement

Abstract

This chapter examines the choice of bodies designated under Article 33 in the United Kingdom (UK), looking at the focal point, national framework, and then the role of civil society. It argues that further thought needs to be given to coordination between them and consolidation of the mechanisms by which civil society organisations and in particular disabled people's organisations' (DPOs) can engage with government and the human rights commissions. The government selected the office for disability issues (ODI) as the focal point and the four equality and human rights commissions (EHRC) as the independent mechanism under Article 33 CRPD. The EHRC has suggested that the ODI should work on producing an action plan for implementation of the Convention, working with government departments and others to do so. Keywords:Article 33; civil society; CRPD; disabled people's organisation (DPO); equality and human rights commissions (EHRC); United Kingdom (UK)