COSP19: The Role of Assistive Technology and Legal Frameworks in Ending GBV for Women with Disabilities
Date: Thu, Jun 11, 2026 – Thu, Jun 11, 2026
Time: 11:30 – 12:45 (EDT)
Venue: Church Centre, 8th Floor, New York, 777 United Nations Plaza (at the corner of First Avenue and 44th Street)
Join us at the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the CRPD (#COSP19) for a side event exploring how assistive technology and inclusive legal frameworks can help prevent and respond to gender based violence (GBV) against women and girls with disabilities.
As the global community marks 20 years of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), this discussion contributes directly to the COSP19 theme of celebrating progress while shaping the next phase of implementation. Grounded in CRPD Article 16 on freedom from exploitation, violence and abuse, the session will advance dialogue on gender equality, digital inclusion, and access to justice.
Women and girls with disabilities often face intersecting forms of discrimination and heightened risks of gender based violence, while also encountering barriers to accessing life changing assistive technology. The session will explore how expanding equitable access to assistive technology and strengthening inclusive legal frameworks can help dismantle these barriers and support survivor centred responses.
The event will bring together governments, UN agencies, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), civil society representatives, and technical experts to discuss practical solutions for improving protection systems and access to justice. Participants will also hear how assistive technology, including accessible reporting tools, communication supports, and mobility aids, can help ensure safe and confidential access to services and legal remedies.
The event is led by the Ministry of Human Rights, Pakistan and the Global Forum on the Leadership of Women with Disabilities (GFLWD), in partnership with Sightsavers, ATscale, UNFPA, UNITAR, and the Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP).
How to join
This session will take place in person at the Church Centre, 8th Floor, New York, 777 United Nations Plaza (at the corner of First Avenue and 44th Street).