Kathmandu, 10 July 2026, Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN), under the SANKALP: Together for Children's Rights project, organized a policy dialogue with Members of Parliament (MPs), government representatives, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), development partners, and youth representatives to strengthen the protection and promotion of the rights of children with disabilities in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and Act Relating to Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 2017.

The dialogue brought together 45 participants including Member of Parliaments, CSOs and other stakeholders , creating a platform for constructive discussions on legislative reforms, accessibility, inclusive governance, and meaningful participation of children and persons with disabilities in policymaking.

During the discussion, participants highlighted several pressing issues affecting persons with disabilities, including the need to shift from charity-based approaches to a rights-based framework, improve accessibility of government documents and draft legislation, strengthen inclusive education, and expand Nepal Sign Language and other measures of reasonable accommodation  to ensure equitable access to information and services.

Youth representatives emphasized the importance of ensuring accessible educational materials, equitable access to resources across all provinces, and meaningful participation of children with disabilities in policy development. They also called for stronger government support for the development and official recognition of Nepal Sign Language.

Members of Parliament expressed their commitment to advancing disability-inclusive laws and policies. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are meaningfully represented in decision-making processes, expanding opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, and fostering closer collaboration between Parliament and disability rights organizations. The MPs also encouraged stakeholders to submit practical written recommendations that could help shape future legal reforms and contribute to ongoing constitutional review processes.

Representatives from civil society organizations further highlighted the importance of accessible schools, rehabilitation services, and family support systems to improve the well-being of children with disabilities. They stressed that disability inclusion should be integrated across all sectors rather than addressed as an isolated  issue.

The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to continue collaboration between BYAN, Members of Parliament and other stakeholders. As a follow-up, BYAN proposed to establish an informal communication platform to facilitate ongoing dialogue, share policy recommendations, and strengthen collective advocacy for the rights of children and persons with disabilities.

Through initiatives such as this policy dialogue, BYAN continues to advocate for inclusive policies and meaningful participation, ensuring that the voices and rights of children and young persons with disabilities are reflected in Nepal's legislative and policy processes.