Currently, the World Bank does not have a design standard for its projects, nor is universal design a requirement for the approval of loans to countries. National development agencies such as USAID and development agencies in the European Union can predicate grants on the inclusion of specific accessibility standards (Box 9).
The World Bank cannot insist on specific accessibility standards unless borrowers already have them. The World Bank, can, however, adopt the principles of universal design as guidance in development projects. For example, the first feasible step would be integrating universal design into its procurement process by establishing procedures which mandate universal design concepts.
In fact, the World Bank should consider the case for adopting principles of universal design in the context of the U.N. Convention on Rights of People with Disabilities (CRPD), which was adopted in December, 2006. Article 9 of the CRPD urges State Parties to enhance accessibility in physical environments, transportation, information and communications, and other public facilities both in urban and rural areas (see Annex 3).
The Convention was signed by 126 countries, has been ratified by 20 countries, and came into force on May 3rd 2008. This is notable as it also includes a high proportion of developing countries. This creates a reasonable expectation that in the near future many development actors will be asked by developing countries for assistance in implementation of the principles and binding obligations countries will incur upon ratification of the Convention.
Also the Convention sets a benchmark for inclusive development of which the World Bank should be aware in order to uphold due diligence, and avoid designing and implementing development activities in contrast with the principles unanimously established by the Convention at the international level.
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