NHRCK Chairperson Advocates for Digital Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities at UN Human Rights Council
- Strengthening digital inclusivity and advancing international cooperation -
□ The Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK), Ahn Chang-Ho, highlighted the critical issue of digital accessibility for persons with disabilities at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council on March 10, 2025.
* Held from February 24 to April 4 in Geneva, Switzerland, the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council provides national human rights institutions with an opportunity to present key human rights concerns on a global stage.
○ Through the 2024 resolution on support systems for community integration of persons with disabilities, UN Human Rights Council had decided to hold interactive dialogue on the rights of persons with disabilities, digital and assistive technologies, strategies to combat cyberbullying, and the promotion of digital inclusivity.
□ In his statement, Chairperson Ahn Chang-Ho welcomed the UN’s focus on digital accessibility and introduced the NHRCK’s efforts to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities. He also pointed to existing challenges that need to be addressed.
○ His address included the NHRCK's consistent effort for policy reforms since 2019 to ensure equal access to digital technology for persons with disabilities. He highlighted the Commissions's key recommendations including legal amendments to expand accessibility measures beyond websites to mobile applications. The Chairperson also emphasized the NHRCK’s proactive initiatives, including the introduction of an electronic braille system and the installation of barrier-free book lending and return kiosks to enhance digital accessibility in the Commission's human rights library.
○ However, barriers such as high costs of assistive devices and insufficient support systems continue to limit accessibility. Chairperson Ahn raised concerns over the disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups, particularly women, children, and elderly persons with disabilities, who face intersecting challenges in accessing digital technologies.
□ The discussion on digital accessibility at the UN Human Rights Council was attended by over 60 governments and 25 civil society organizations, including the NHRCK.
○ The NHRCK reaffirmed its dedication to promoting equal participation and digital protection for persons with disabilities. Moving forward, it pledged to actively contribute to international dialogues and work closely with the UN and global partners to build a more inclusive digital society.
