o National Human Rights Commission of Korea hosted an International Symposium for the Integration of People with Intellectual Disabilities in Local Community on September 14.
o During the symposium, experts from the U.S., France, Taiwan, Japan, and Hong Kong have participated to discuss the issue of regional integration of people with intellectual disabilities and their legal capability, system to support decision making and mental health acts in different countries.
o Up until now, people with intellectual disabilities were admitted to facilities regardless of their will, excluded from the community, and their voices weren’t heard or attract people’s attention.
o Under these circumstances, enforcement of the Mental Health Welfare Act on May 30 bears significance. In April, NHRCK expressed its opinion regarding the enforcement decree and rule of the Act to ensure the purpose of the Act which was accepted by the government.
o NHRCK hopes the discussion serves as an opportunity to devise measures for people with intellectual disabilities live in harmony with people without disabilities and will continue to make effort for promotion of human rights of and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
