COSP17 - in person side event. Unlock the Everyday: The power of partnership to achieve access to assistive technology.

This side event will take place on Wednesday 12 June 2024 from 12.30 - 14.00 EST at UNICEF House - Danny Kaye Centre, 3, UN Plaza, which is directly across the street from the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Organized by UNICEF, ATscale, International Disability Alliance, and the Global Disability Innovation Hub, and co-sponsored by Australia, the United States, and Rwanda, this event promises to be an illuminating exploration of the power of partnership to achieve universal access to assistive technology.

Access to assistive technology holds immense potential to positively influence educational outcomes, employment prospects, and overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Yet, despite its undeniable importance, many persons with disabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, encounter significant barriers to accessing the assistive technology they need.

This session seeks to delve into this historically neglected issue by shedding light on the transformative impact of assistive technology, its importance for achieving the SDGs as well as adhering to the CRPD.

Speakers:

• Pascal Bijleveld, CEO, ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology
• Sarah Goulding, Assistant Secretary and Principal Specialist Gender Equality, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
• Jennie Lay Flurrie, Chief Accessibility Officer, Microsoft
• Leila Pakkala, Director of Supply Division, UNICEF
• Bernard Chiira, Director Innovate Now, Global Disability Innovation Hub, Kenya
• Nawaf Kabbara, President, International Disability Alliance
• Kylie Shae, Team Lead on access to assistive technology, WHO
• Iain McKinnon, CEO, Global Disability Innovation Hub