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On July 9, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Friends of Vision Group hosted VNR Lab at the UN Secretariat Building, focusing on the integration of assistive technology (AT) into Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs). The lab convened Member States, inter-governmental organisations, and various stakeholders to explore how AT can enhance inclusivity and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The session began with a welcoming address from H.E. Mr. Fergal Mythen, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the UN, who underscored the critical role of assistive technology in advancing the SDGs. Ambassador Mythen’s introduction set the stage for robust discussions on integrating AT into national policies and VNRs to drive development outcomes. Following on, H.E. Mr. Walton Webson, Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the UN, emphasised the transformative impact of assistive technology, particularly in improving eye health. Ambassador Webson also highlighted the need for improved data collection and reporting to support global policy and implementation.
Technical presentations from Ms. Kylie Shae, Team Lead for Access to Assistive Technology at WHO, and Ms. Brooke Blanchard, Senior Policy and Advocacy Manager at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), provided a comprehensive overview of the current landscape. Ms. Shae discussed assistive technology and WHO’s data tools, while Ms. Blanchard focused on global policies and commitments related to eye health, demonstrating their relevance to integrating assistive technology.
Member States contributed valuable insights. Prof. Dr. Vugar Mammadov from Azerbaijan shared his country’s experiences using WHO data tools to address assistive technology needs. Civil society voices were also heard during the session, with Ms. Yiwen (Amanda) Huang from the Fred Hollows Foundation highlighting regional perspectives and challenges from the civil society’s viewpoint.
Concluding the event, H.E. Mr. Muhammad Abdul Muhith, Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UN, stressed the necessity of ongoing high-level support and political commitment to improve access to assistive technology, ensuring no one is left behind in the pursuit of the 2030 Agenda.
The VNR Lab highlighted the importance of integrating assistive technology into national policies and VNRs to boost sustainable development. By sharing experiences and best practices, Member States and stakeholders can enhance their efforts to achieve greater equality and sustainable growth, leveraging the transformative potential of assistive technology. The final outcomes of the session, including updates from the 2024 VNRs, will be released in the coming weeks, providing a comprehensive overview of the discussions and recommendations aimed at fostering effective and inclusive development practices in alignment with the SDGs.
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