Article 19 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) recognizes the right of persons with disabilities to live independently in societies and be included in their communities. However, institutionalization of persons with disabilities is still an established practice in the Arab region, but little information is known about the institutions or the people within them. ESCWA, in partnership with the Center for Lebanese Studies (CLS) at the Lebanese American University (LAU), conducted a study investigating approximate numbers and living conditions of persons with disabilities in institutions in Arab countries.
 
The objectives of the meeting include:
(i) Review the results of the study on persons with disabilities living in institutions in Arab countries;
(ii) Discuss different aspects of institutionalization such as causes, services, government regulation and alternatives to institutions;
(iii) Identify challenges, opportunities and support needs in order to chart a way forward towards implementing Article 19 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
 
Participants include representatives of national ministries and disability councils; directors of select institutions for persons with disabilities; NGOs, Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) and members of civil society working on disability-related issues.