The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities, Catalina Devandas-Aguilar, is visiting the Republic of Moldova from 10 to 17 September 2015 to gather first-hand information about the situation of persons with disabilities in the country and assess initiatives related to the realization of their rights, IPN reports, quoting a press release of the United Nations Office for Human Rights.

“The Republic of Moldova has taken interesting steps towards enhancing the situation of persons with disabilities, in particular in key areas such as education, de-institutionalization and legal capacity which are crucial for promoting their democratic and active participation in the community,” Catalina Devandas-Aguilar said launching the first ever country visit of the new mandate under the Human Rights Council.

“I am interested in obtaining in-depth understanding of the advances made, as I am keen on identifying and sharing good practices related to the protection, promotion and fulfillment of the rights of persons with disabilities,” she noted.

During her eight-day visit, Catalina Devandas-Aguilar will meet with a broad range of stakeholders, including government representatives and organizations of persons with disabilities. She will also study national legislation, policies, programs and practices, and regulatory frameworks and institutions, in order to offer support and collaboration to the Moldovan Government in its activities to advance the rights of persons with disabilities.

She will then present a full report on the mission to the Human Rights Council in March 2016.