01/03/2026
The Disability Caucus has been officially recognised, marking a historic milestone for inclusive global climate governance.
For the first time, persons with disabilities and their representative organisations have a formally acknowledged platform within the climate negotiations to ensure their voices are heard and meaningfully integrated into policies, plans and frameworks that directly affect their lives and communities. Persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected by climate impacts, yet their perspectives have long been overlooked in adaptation, mitigation, and resilience strategies.
While the United Nations Framework for Climate Change (UNFCC) has provided opportunity over the years for the disability movement to speak and contribute to discussions, the establishment and recognition of a Disability Caucus as an Informal Group of stakeholders active within the UNFCCC process firmly signals the long-overdue commitment to equity, accessibility and human rights at the heart of climate policy. It’s a breakthrough that reflects years of sustained advocacy by disability rights organisations and allies who have insisted that climate justice must include everyone.
The recognition of a Disability Caucus, which comes after continued effort by disability grassroots activists stretching back nine years from COP 21, also strengthens the global disability movement by providing a coordinated space for engagement, capacity-building, and unified advocacy within technical climate processes. It affirms that effective climate action requires solutions designed with – and informed by – the lived experiences of persons with disabilities. The current caucus comprises more than 120 organisations, 12 of which are already UNFCCC-accredited. As the world faces escalating climate challenges, embedding disability perspectives based on their experience will lead to responses that are more accessible, sustainable and just.
This announcement is not the end of the road: as a Caucus, everyone will continue working towards full Constituency status with UNFCCC to ensure persons with disabilities are given equal rights and opportunities available to full constituencies within the negotiation process.
What has happened this week is a huge victory for persons with disabilities and a profound step forward for global climate justice and for creating a climate agenda shaped by and accountable to all.
“This milestone proves that inclusive climate action is not optional; it is essential for a just and resilient world.” Sh*taye Astawes, Advocacy Director, African Disability Forum - ADF
“This recognition sends a clear message: climate justice must include persons with disabilities at every decision-making table.” Maulani Rotinsulu, Director, ASEAN Disability Forum.
"For the first time, our lived experiences are not an afterthought - they are shaping the future of global climate policy.” Juan Ángel De Gouveia, President, RIADIS
“In the Pacific, where climate impacts are already at our doorstep, this recognition will help ensure that persons with disabilities are part of the solutions protecting our islands and our future.” Damian Griffis, Co-Chair, Pacific Disability Forum
CBM UK Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion Disability Rights Fund World Blind Union
