he Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all individuals, particularly focusing on persons with disabilities (PWDs). Through its Accessibility for All program, CPDI strives to eliminate barriers that hinder full participation in various aspects of life, enabling PWDs to contribute actively and productively to society.

Objectives

- Policy Advocacy: CPDI engages in rigorous policy analysis and advocacy to influence the development and implementation of laws that protect the rights of PWDs. By collaborating with government bodies and stakeholders, the organization seeks to ensure that legislative frameworks are inclusive and uphold the dignity of all citizens.

- Awareness and Sensitization: Recognizing the importance of societal attitudes, CPDI conducts awareness campaigns to sensitize the public about the challenges faced by PWDs. These initiatives aim to foster a culture of empathy, respect, and support, breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions.

- Capacity Building: To empower PWDs and those working closely with them, CPDI offers training programs that enhance skills and knowledge. These programs are designed to build confidence and equip participants with the tools necessary to navigate and influence their environments effectively.

Key Initiatives

1) Legal Framework Development: CPDI has been instrumental in formulating and promoting key legislative documents, including:

• Accessibility Code of Pakistan 2006: A comprehensive guideline ensuring that infrastructure and services are designed to be accessible to all.
• Provincial Acts: Such as the Balochistan Persons with Disabilities Act, 2017; the Sindh Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2018; and the Punjab Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2022, which provide legal protections and frameworks for the inclusion of PWDs at the provincial level.
• The ICT Rights of Persons with Disability Act, 2020: A significant step towards safeguarding the rights of PWDs within the Islamabad Capital Territory

2) Publications and Resources: To support ongoing education and advocacy, CPDI has developed several key publications, including:

• "Legal Framework to Protect and Promote Right to Work of Persons with Disabilities": This document offers an in-depth analysis of existing laws and provides recommendations to enhance employment opportunities for PWDs.
• "CPDI Recommendations for the Establishment and Functioning of District Welfare and Rehabilitation Unit (DWRU)": A guideline aimed at assisting in the creation of local units dedicated to the welfare and rehabilitation of PWDs.

Recent Activities

• Workshops and Seminars: CPDI regularly organizes events that bring together policymakers, activists, and community members to discuss strategies for improving accessibility and inclusion. These platforms facilitate the exchange of ideas and the development of actionable plans.

• Collaborations with Government Agencies: By partnering with various governmental departments, CPDI works to ensure that accessibility standards are integrated into public infrastructure projects, promoting universal design principles.

• Community Outreach Programs: Engaging directly with communities, CPDI conducts outreach initiatives to educate and empower PWDs about their rights and available resources, fostering a sense of agency and community support.

Through the Accessibility for All program, CPDI remains committed to building a society where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to participate fully and equally in all spheres of life.