Myra Kovary: The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

Описание: This May 7, 2025, presentation focuses on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and its significance for users and survivors of psychiatry. The CRPD
emphasizes a human rights approach, non-discrimination, and autonomy for persons with
disabilities. It represents a shift from older, more paternalistic approaches like the United
Nations MI Principles, asserting that the CRPD respects all human rights of persons with
psychosocial disabilities equally and prohibits forced psychiatric interventions based on
dangerousness to self or others. Key principles highlighted include autonomy, freedom of
choice, and active involvement in decision-making. The presentation discusses Article 12,
advocating support for supported decision-making over substituted decision-making, and covers
various rights protected by the CRPD, such as liberty, freedom from torture, and the right to
health and political participation. The CRPD is viewed as a victory for users and survivors of
psychiatry, providing a legal foundation to abolish certain practices and establish support
systems. How we must come together in unity NOW more than ever before… LETS RALLY
TOGETHER 4 RIGHTS

Myra Kovary, a passionate movement activist and international disability rights leader in the
consumer/survivor/ex-patient movement for the human rights of persons with disabilities,
survivors of psychiatry. She played a key role in the development of the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as a representative of
MindFreedom International and a member of the International Disability Caucus (IDC). Kovary
has worked with several internal rights organizations as the Network Facilitator, International
Network of Women with Disabilities and has actively worked to educate others on the CRPD
and its implications, especially concerning legal capacity, autonomy, and the right to freedom
from forced treatment. Her advocacy extends to various platforms, including the United Nations,
where she has participated in expert panels and side events.