Review,Discuss, explain and write how the following major international and national legal documents promote the inclusion thought/practices in general and the issues of person with disabilities/special needs or vulnerable groups in particular
1. The Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action(1994)
2. The UN
Convention on the Rights of the Child(1989)
3. The Education and Training Policy (1994)
Within introduction, conclusion and references
Introduction:
The promotion of inclusion and the protection of the rights of individuals with disabilities or special needs, as well as other vulnerable groups, is a critical aspect of international and national legal frameworks. This essay will review, discuss, explain, and analyze three major legal documents: The Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action (1994), the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), and the Education and Training Policy (1994). These documents play a significant role in promoting inclusion in general and addressing the specific issues faced by persons with disabilities/special needs or vulnerable groups.
The Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action (1994):
The Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action, adopted by UNESCO, focuses on inclusive education. It highlights the importance of inclusive practices in education and calls for the transformation of education systems to ensure the full participation of all learners. This document emphasizes the principle of equity and stresses that education should be accessible to all, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. It promotes inclusive classrooms, support systems, and teacher training programs to accommodate the diverse needs of learners. By encouraging inclusive education, the Salamanca Statement promotes the inclusion of persons with disabilities/special needs and vulnerable groups within the education system.
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989):
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is a landmark international document that outlines the fundamental rights of children. It recognizes the equal rights of all children, without discrimination of any kind. This convention promotes the inclusion of children with disabilities/ special needs or vulnerable backgrounds in various aspects of life, including education, healthcare, and social protection. Article 23 specifically highlights the rights of children with disabilities, stating that they have the right to enjoy a full and decent life, in conditions that ensure dignity, promote self-reliance, and facilitate their active participation in society. By guaranteeing these rights, the convention promotes the inclusion of children with disabilities/ special needs and vulnerable groups.
The Education and Training Policy (1994):
The Education and Training Policy, adopted by many countries, aims to ensure quality education for all individuals, including those with disabilities/special needs or from vulnerable groups. This policy emphasizes the creation of an inclusive and non-discriminatory educational environment. It encourages the development of inclusive curricula, the provision of necessary support services, and the training of teachers to meet the diverse needs of learners. By implementing this policy, states are promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities/ special needs or from vulnerable backgrounds in the education system, ensuring they receive quality education on an equal basis with others.
Conclusion:
These three major legal documents, the Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Education and Training Policy, have significantly contributed to the promotion of inclusion in general and the empowerment of persons with disabilities/special needs or from vulnerable groups in particular. These documents outline the rights of individuals, call for the removal of barriers, and promote the creation of inclusive environments in various settings, such as education. While the implementation of these legal frameworks may still face challenges, they provide a strong foundation for advocating and safeguarding the rights and inclusion of all individuals, irrespective of their abilities or backgrounds.
References:
- UNESCO, Ministry of Education and Science (1994). The Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action. Retrieved from: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000109805
- United Nations (1989). Convention on the Rights of the Child. Retrieved from: https://www.ohchr.org/en/professional-interest/pages/crc.aspx
- Council of Europe (1994). Education and Training Policy. Retrieved from: https://www.coe.int/en/web/conventions/full-list/-/conventions/rms/0900001680083746