EFHOH warmly congratulates Norway on its historic decision to incorporate the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) into the Human Rights Act. This significant step reaffirms Norway’s commitment to strengthening legal protections for persons with disabilities and fostering a more inclusive society for this community. 

Announced by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, alongside Minister of Culture and Equality Lubna Jaffery, Minister of Justice and Public Security Astrid Aas-Hansen, and Minister of Labour and Social Inclusion Tonje Brenna, he acknowledged the efforts of disability organizations and activists and their persistent advocacy in helping to make this achievement a reality. Minister Brenna highlighted the normative significance of the bill, expressing hope that it will enhance employment opportunities for people with disabilities. 

The incorporation of the CRPD into national law strengthens greater accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities in society for the hard of hearing community. This is also a major victory for our members, The Norwegian Association of the Hard of Hearing (HLF) and the Norwegian Federation of Organisations of Disabled People (FFO). 

The government’s proposal will be presented to the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) this autumn, marking a critical step forward for disability rights in Norway. 

EFHOH celebrates this achievement and looks forward to seeing its positive impact on the lives of norwegian hard of hearing people and the wider disability community in Norway. This decision serves as a powerful example for other nations to uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals with disabilities.