Introduction to the Guidance

In collaboration with Leonard Cheshire Disability, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) under the auspices of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) network has developed this guidance, emphasising the importance of inclusive language and communications in Parliaments.

Accessible and inclusive communications are essential for ensuring equitable participation for all individuals, including those with disabilities, in democratic processes.

The need for disability-inclusive language and communications resonates with the CPwD’s commitment to upholding values of equality, accessibility, and non-discrimination in parliamentary institutions across the Commonwealth. Aligned with the principles outlined in the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), we remain dedicated to eliminating barriers and fostering an environment where people with disabilities can fully engage in parliamentary affairs.

Disability is not simply an individual characteristic, but is profoundly influenced by societal and environmental factors. Recognising and addressing these influences are crucial for creating an inclusive environment. By striving to remove physical, informative, or attitudinal barriers, we can create spaces where all people, including those with disabilities, can meaningfully participate in the parliamentary process.

This guidance primarily focuses on promoting disability-inclusive language and communications. It acknowledges that language can negatively perpetuate stigma and barriers or positively facilitate inclusivity and understanding. This guidance is designed to assist parliamentary institutions in adopting practices encouraging respect, dignity, and equal participation for people with disabilities.

This guidance seeks to supplement the existing CPwD Disability Inclusion Guidelines which were published in 2020i which collectively seeks to enable parliamentarians to adopt best practice approaches.

The following guidance is divided into five sections.

Section 1 provides a background context on inclusive communication centred around commitments outlined in the CRPD and a change in the discourse around disabilities.

Section 2 provides a useful list of terms and identifies key considerations when undertaking work around inclusive communications.

Section 3 focuses on the role of parliaments in developing strategies around inclusive communication.

Section 4, which is divided into four parts provides the main element of this publication providing resources, advice, tips and case studies in implementing inclusive communication.

Finally, Section 5 provides some further sources of information from leading international entities.