Latest news with #HCD
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
To mark its 50th anniversary, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) mobilizes youth around a Conference on the Development of an Economically inclusive and Peaceful West Africa
Discussing the causes and factors of youth unemployment and the impact of their instrumentalization, showcasing successful youth initiatives and enterprises, and exploring funding and innovation opportunities such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Human Capital Development (HCD) Catalytic Investment Fund initiative, will be the topics addressed at the major Youth Conference being organized by ECOWAS from April 29 to 30, 2025, in Accra, Ghana. Organized with the Ghanaian Ministry of Youth and Development as part of the celebration of ECOWAS' 50th anniversary, this major Conference will also address themes such as (i) the role of technology in creating employment opportunities and solving employment problems, (2) advocating reforms to align education with labor market needs and highlighting effective continuing education programs, (3) encouraging youth participation in civic activities and promoting active citizenship. More than 250 participants, including H.E. Damtien TCHINTCHIBIDJA, Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, representatives of the Ghanaian government, educators, business leaders and various stakeholders will gather in Accra over 2 days to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding youth participation, particularly with regard to unemployment and underemployment in West Africa. The event will also bring together young people from ECOWAS member states, specialized ECOWAS agencies such as the ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development Program, as well as participants from the Directorates and Programs of the Office of the Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, ECOWAS Early Warning System observers in the field. Participants will also include the private sector, strategic partners and donor organizations. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Jordan Times
17-04-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Prince Mired meets with EU Delegation
AMMAN — HH Prince Mired, Lord Chamberlain and President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), on Wednesday received a European delegation, led by EU Ambassador to Jordan Christophe Chatzisavas, accompanied by the French and Belgian military attachés, as part of their official visit to the Kingdom. During the meeting, held at the HCD headquarters, Prince Mired reviewed Jordan's 'notable' progress in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly since the Kingdom's ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2008, according to an HCD statement. The prince highlighted key achievements and reaffirmed the prioritisation of disability rights within national institutions. He also acknowledged the 'persisting' challenges in realising these rights, stressing HCD's ongoing efforts to address them through multi-stakeholder collaboration. Chatzisavas commended Jordan's leadership in co-hosting the Global Disability Summit in partnership with Germany and the International Disability Alliance, and the efforts to protect persons with disabilities and include them into society. HCD Secretary-General Muhannad Azzeh outlined the legislative advancements achieved in recent years, most notably the enactment of the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities No. 20 of 2017. This law stands as the first anti-discrimination legislation of its kind in the region and affirms the rights and freedoms of persons with disabilities on an equal basis with others, Azzeh added. In discussing national implementation strategies, Azzeh referred to the 10-year inclusive education strategy, the national plan to improve accessibility in existing buildings and public facilities, and the national strategy to replace institutional care with community-based support services. He noted that Jordan's selection as a co-host of the Global Disability Summit reflects its sustained progress in legislative and policy domains concerning disability inclusion. This recognition, he pointed out, will serve to boost Jordan's international positioning and facilitate the establishment of global partnerships that support national priorities in the area of disability rights. Azzeh also underscored Jordan's leading role in shaping the summit's final outcome document, the 'Amman-Berlin Declaration,' which introduced the '15 for 15' principle, encouraging states parties and international actors to allocate at least 15 per cent of all development cooperation projects to be inclusive of persons with disabilities. He noted that Jordan led globally in the number of commitments made, with 133 commitments from 88 entities, spanning government institutions, national bodies and the private sector. Azzeh stressed that the fulfilment of these commitments requires the mobilisation of resources and implementation within clear timeframes, in close consultation with persons with disabilities and their representative organisations.
Jordan Times
15-04-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Article by HRH Prince Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein on the Conclusion of the Global Disability Summit
As the Global Disability Summit, co-hosted by the Federal Republic of Germany and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, concludes in Berlin, I would like to express, in my capacity as President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD) in Jordan, my deep pride in Jordan's active and meaningful participation in this historic global gathering. The Summit brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and disability rights advocates from across the world, united by a shared commitment to forging a more just, inclusive, and equitable future for all persons with disabilities. It was a great honour to lead the delegation of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as part of the official Jordanian delegation, headed by His Majesty King Abdullah. His Majesty's keynote address was a defining moment of the Summit, an inspiring message that reflected the depth of humanitarian values and the breadth of the Royal vision to advance dignity, empowerment, and inclusion not only within Jordan, but throughout the global community. HCD played an active and impactful role across multiple Summit sessions addressing critical thematic areas. Notably, HCD chaired a high-level session on the rights of persons with disabilities in contexts of war and armed conflict. We also contributed substantively to discussions on political participation, independent living and alternatives to institutionalisation, and inclusive social protection systems. A particular focus was placed on inclusive education, recognised as the cornerstone for building societies in which no one is left behind. Furthermore, the Council highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence in creating assistive technologies that enhance the ability of persons with disabilities to access services and exercise their rights on an equal basis with others. It is a matter of great pride for HCD that Jordan has emerged as one of the leading countries whose ministries, national institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector stakeholders submitted comprehensive, time-bound, and budgeted commitments. As a result, Jordan was recognised among the top entities worldwide selected for a dedicated plenary session to showcase model commitments, an achievement that reinforces our confidence in translating these pledges into tangible, rights-based practices on the ground. At this juncture, I would like to underscore the deeply positive and far-reaching impact of the Royal Initiative 'Restoring Hope' in Gaza, which featured prominently throughout the Summit. This initiative stood as one of the clearest expressions of humanitarian solidarity—offering hope and critical support to individuals living under the devastating effects of siege and conflict. With the leadership of His Majesty the King, Jordan played a pivotal role in transforming this initiative from a vision into a life-saving reality. From the platform of this Summit, HCD reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, in line with our national legislation and international obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We will continue to work in close partnership with the Government of Jordan and all relevant ministries and institutions to ensure the implementation of inclusive and rights-based policies that uphold justice, dignity, and equality of opportunity for all. In this spirit, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Federal Republic of Germany, its government and people, for their gracious hosting, excellent organisation, and enduring partnership, all of which made this Summit a resounding success. I also wish to express my profound gratitude to the dedicated staff of HCD. Your unwavering commitment, diligence, and tireless efforts throughout the three-year preparation process and the Summit itself have made me immensely proud, as they have so many others who have witnessed this extraordinary journey. My thanks also go to the Royal Hashemite Court, all governmental and civil institutions, international partners, and every individual who contributed to the success of this transformative occasion. We return to Jordan with renewed vision, steadfast resolve, and a firm belief that meaningful change begins by recognising and investing in the boundless potential of every human being, regardless of the challenges they may face. Peace and blessings be upon you all. Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Page 2
Jordan Times
15-04-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Article by His Royal Highness Prince Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein on the Conclusion of the Global Disability Summit
As the Global Disability Summit, co-hosted by the Federal Republic of Germany and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, concludes in Berlin, I would like to express, in my capacity as President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD) in Jordan, my deep pride in Jordan's active and meaningful participation in this historic global gathering. The Summit brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and disability rights advocates from across the world, united by a shared commitment to forging a more just, inclusive, and equitable future for all persons with disabilities. It was a great honour to lead the delegation of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as part of the official Jordanian delegation, headed by His Majesty King Abdullah. His Majesty's keynote address was a defining moment of the Summit, an inspiring message that reflected the depth of humanitarian values and the breadth of the Royal vision to advance dignity, empowerment, and inclusion not only within Jordan, but throughout the global community. HCD played an active and impactful role across multiple Summit sessions addressing critical thematic areas. Notably, HCD chaired a high-level session on the rights of persons with disabilities in contexts of war and armed conflict. We also contributed substantively to discussions on political participation, independent living and alternatives to institutionalisation, and inclusive social protection systems. A particular focus was placed on inclusive education, recognised as the cornerstone for building societies in which no one is left behind. Furthermore, the Council highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence in creating assistive technologies that enhance the ability of persons with disabilities to access services and exercise their rights on an equal basis with others. It is a matter of great pride for HCD that Jordan has emerged as one of the leading countries whose ministries, national institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector stakeholders submitted comprehensive, time-bound, and budgeted commitments. As a result, Jordan was recognised among the top entities worldwide selected for a dedicated plenary session to showcase model commitments, an achievement that reinforces our confidence in translating these pledges into tangible, rights-based practices on the ground. At this juncture, I would like to underscore the deeply positive and far-reaching impact of the Royal Initiative 'Restoring Hope' in Gaza, which featured prominently throughout the Summit. This initiative stood as one of the clearest expressions of humanitarian solidarity—offering hope and critical support to individuals living under the devastating effects of siege and conflict. With the leadership of His Majesty the King, Jordan played a pivotal role in transforming this initiative from a vision into a life-saving reality. From the platform of this Summit, HCD reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, in line with our national legislation and international obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We will continue to work in close partnership with the Government of Jordan and all relevant ministries and institutions to ensure the implementation of inclusive and rights-based policies that uphold justice, dignity, and equality of opportunity for all. In this spirit, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Federal Republic of Germany, its government and people, for their gracious hosting, excellent organisation, and enduring partnership, all of which made this Summit a resounding success. I also wish to express my profound gratitude to the dedicated staff of HCD. Your unwavering commitment, diligence, and tireless efforts throughout the three-year preparation process and the Summit itself have made me immensely proud, as they have so many others who have witnessed this extraordinary journey. My thanks also go to the Royal Hashemite Court, all governmental and civil institutions, international partners, and every individual who contributed to the success of this transformative occasion. We return to Jordan with renewed vision, steadfast resolve, and a firm belief that meaningful change begins by recognising and investing in the boundless potential of every human being, regardless of the challenges they may face. Peace and blessings be upon you all. Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Page 2
Jordan Times
25-02-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Jordan launches national framework for inclusion, diversity in education with UNESCO
Developed with UNESCO's support, the framework provides key guidelines for creating an inclusive education system (Photo courtesy of UNESCO) AMMAN — Under the patronage of HH Prince Mired Bin Raad, chief chamberlain and president of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), and in cooperation with Minister of Education Azmi Mahafzah, Jordan has launched the National Framework for Inclusion and Diversity in Education. Developed with UNESCO's support, the framework provides key guidelines for creating an inclusive education system, highlighting necessary components, roles, responsibilities, and available resources for educators in Jordan, according to a UNESCO statement. Secretary-General of the Ministry of Education for Administrative and Financial Affairs Sahar Shakhatrah, who deputised for Mahafzah, stressed that Jordan, under the Royal directives of His Majesty King Abdullah, is witnessing a "qualitative" shift and making "significant" progress in the field of the rights of persons with disabilities in general and the right to education in particular. She underscored the ministry's commitment to creating a better reality for persons with disabilities, enabling them to enjoy their independence and freedom based on equity, equality and equal opportunities. The secretary-general expressed her appreciation for UNESCO and supporting partners, saying: 'This framework will significantly contribute to improving resource allocation, enhancing coordination and strengthening inclusion within Jordan's education system.' UNESCO Representative to Jordan Noha Bawazir commended Prince Mired and Mahafzah for their leadership, and the Kingdom's long-standing commitment to ensuring quality education for all learners. 'The framework not just reaffirms Jordan's commitment to inclusive education but also provides helpful directives to ensure that existing commitments can be actionable and impactful,' said Bawazir. In June 2022, Jordan endorsed the Jordan Declaration on Inclusion and Diversity in Education, which identified 10 vulnerable groups at risk of exclusion, according to the statement. This framework builds on that declaration and supports ongoing education commitments and reforms, including the Education Strategic Plan (2018-2025), the 10-year Inclusive Education Strategy and Jordan's Economic Modernisation Vision. The framework consolidates all commitments and plans related to inclusion and diversity in education in Jordan, providing a policy framework and foundations for technical and operational guidelines at various levels (central, directorates in the field, and schools) to enhance guidance and implementation monitoring. The framework also sets the stage for future operational guidelines aimed at promoting inclusive education for children with disabilities and ensuring the full participation of all learners. The Ministry presented its dissemination plan for the Framework during the launch event. The development of the framework was a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders, led by the Ministry of Education, with the HCD, the ministries of health and social development, development partners, UN agencies and inclusive Jordanian schools. This collaboration ensures that policies and practices align with every child's right to education, reinforcing the principle of equal opportunities for all. This launch coincides with Jordan's upcoming co-hosting of the Global Disability Summit with Germany and the International Disability Alliance in April 2025.
