Statement by H.E. Ambassador UMETSU Shigeru, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Arria-formula Meeting on "Persons with Disabilities in Situations of Armed Conflict and Related Humanitarian Crises"

 

Thank you, co-chairs.
 
I would first like to express my appreciation to Guyana, Poland, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom for convening this timely and important meeting in light of the recent International Day of Persons with Disabilities and marking over 5 years since the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2475. I also thank the briefers for their insightful and detailed briefings with recommendations.
 
Resolution 2475, which Japan co-sponsored, focuses on the protection of persons with disabilities in situations of armed conflict and was a significant step forward in the Security Council’s role in mitigating and better understanding the disproportionate impact that conflict has on persons with disabilities.
 
Since its adoption, Resolution 2475 has contributed to mainstreaming disability inclusion throughout the UN system, particularly in guiding the Department of Peacekeeping Operations’ approach to the rights of persons with disabilities. Complementing the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS), the Resolution helps correctly reframe the rights of persons with disabilities as a part of the peace and security agenda.
 
Co-chairs,
 
Needless to say, any types of conflict not only exacerbates existing barriers for individuals with disabilities, but also generates new disabilities. Therefore, the international community must make every effort to prevent such conflicts from occurring in the first place and to end them promptly if they do arise, so that the countries or regions affected can move toward reconstruction.  
 
Having said that, Japan has been active in providing humanitarian assistance around the world, including aid to persons with disabilities in situations of armed conflict. This week, for instance, Japan announced the provision of rehabilitation equipment and welfare vehicles to support persons with disabilities in Ukraine, as well as older persons, who lack access to proper medical equipment that addresses their needs.
 
Co-chairs,
 
Japan attaches importance to the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and Mr. TAMON Hiroshi, a Japanese lawyer with over 25 years of practical experience, will serve on the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities from 2025 to 2028. Recalling the provisions of the Convention, in particular Article 11 on situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies, Japan reiterates the importance of improving the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of armed conflict. 
 
Co-chairs,
 
In conclusion, Japan remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, as outlined in Resolution 2475. Our humanitarian assistance to many countries, coupled with our active participation in international initiatives, demonstrates our dedication to this cause. Japan will continue to contribute to realizing a society where the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities are guaranteed, including in the context of armed conflict.
 
Thank you.