Article 32 [International cooperation]

This chapter analyzes Article 32 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) entitled "International Cooperation" by pointing out the its distinctive features and innovative aspects . For the first time in a human rights treaty, Article 32 provides a legal framework to sustain inclusive development. This norm requires international cooperation, including development programs, be inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities. Inclusive and accessible international cooperation is at the basis of the so-called "twin track approach" to development cooperation enshrined in Article 32. The purpose of this approach is to mainstream disability issues across all relevant programs and projects and to have specific programs that address persons with disabilities. In line with the paradigm shift towards disability enshrined in the CRPD, the truly innovative approach of Article 32 is that international cooperation is directed towards the realization of the Convention's purposes going beyond the traditional focus on economic, social and cultural rights. Indeed, the Convention promotes a human rights-based approach to international cooperation. Moreover, Article 32 contributed to include disability into the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.