Learn about the importance of informed parental decision-making framed by respect for the rights of the child.
In this video, Catia Malaquias explains how the “parental choice” narrative can hinder the inclusive education path for a child. She describes how important it is for parents to make informed, evidence-based choices about their child’s education.
Catia briefly describes the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). This document was ratified by the Australian Government in 2008. It describes the obligation for signatory countries to have an Inclusive Education System. These obligations are set out in Article 24 and General Comment #4.
Unfortunately, in Australia, there are significant systemic barriers to inclusion. These often force parents to make the “least-worst” choice for their child with a disability.
The key message is that Inclusive Education is a fundamental human right of all children. As parents and citizens, we all have a responsibility to uphold these rights for all children.