Mr. President,
Cuba supports draft resolution L.5, the relevance of which is indisputable.
Digital technologies, accessible transport, and inclusive housing are essential conditions for persons with disabilities to fully enjoy their rights and participate on an equal basis in all aspects of social, economic, and cultural life.
We positively note the call to establish accessible transport systems for all persons with disabilities, including in rural areas, through investment in adapted vehicles and accessible ticketing systems and stations.
We also support the recognition of the obligation of States to ensure that the development, use, and regulation of digital technologies is consistent with the international human rights framework, in order to prevent these technologies from becoming new sources of exclusion for persons with disabilities.
Artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies are important tools for inclusion, but they may also exacerbate inequalities if they are not designed with the specific needs of persons with disabilities in mind and with their participation in decision-making processes.
Mr. President,
In Cuba, more than 400,000 persons have some form of disability. Ensuring the full enjoyment of their rights is a State priority.
However, these efforts take place under particularly adverse conditions. The cruel economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the Government of the United States, now intensified by an energy siege, has a direct and highly negative impact on the care and well-being of persons with disabilities.
Despite these obstacles, Cuba will continue advancing towards increasingly accessible and inclusive physical and digital environments.
For these reasons, Cuba supports draft resolution L.5.
Thank you.