WEI Review of the U.S. National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security

Regarding References to Women and Girls with Disabilities

Overview:
The U.S. National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (Plan) includes many references to women and girls with disabilities. The Plan discusses the interaction between conflict and the incidence of disability and the particular risks that women with disabilities face in conflict situations. The Plan also tasks the U.S. Government with promoting “equitable access” to medical, social, and legal services for women and girls with disabilities. Perhaps more significantly, the Plan tasks the U.S. Government with supporting the participation of women with disabilities in peace-building efforts. Women Enabled’s review of the Plan revealed specific references to women and girls with disabilities in various elements of the plans objectives and outcomes. Some opportunities for greater inclusion of women and girls with disabilities were missed, but hopefully, during the reporting and more detailed development and implementation of the Plan, these gaps will be addressed. Additionally, the inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in the implementation of the Plan is required by the U.S. Agency for International Development’s 1997 USAID Disability Policy Paper, which requires the inclusion and active participation of people with disabilities in USAID-funded programs and activities.  With our expertise on the human rights of women and girls with disabilities and on conflict and post-conflict situations, Women Enabled, Inc. welcomes the opportunity to assist with Plan monitoring and implementation.