New legislative approach to disability Rights. Challenges and commitments Of universities

Abstract

The International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities of 13
December 2006 enshrines a paradigm shift in the legal approach to disability. Article 8
of the Convention provides that States undertake to raise awareness of society, combat
stereotypes and prejudice against persons with disabilities, and promote awareness of the
abilities and contributions of persons with disabilities. It is recommended that public
awareness campaigns be launched and an attitude of respect for the rights of persons with
disabilities be promoted at all levels of the educational system to achieve this. This
contribution sets out to explain the objectives, activities and results of an educational
project carried out by a group of lecturers at the University of Córdoba who are aware of
the social responsibility of universities to promote certain values and the need to
“deconstruct” the prejudices and myths surrounding disability.