Pakistan

September 03, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan has steered a first-of-its-kind resolution on Access to Assistive Technology through the United Nations General Assembly, with member states adopting by consensus, which marks a milestone in global efforts to advance disability inclusion and human development.

Presenting the resolution for adoption, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said the measure situates access to assistive technology squarely within the wider development and inclusion agenda.

He noted that the resolution recognizes the deep linkages between assistive technology and education, employment, health, social protection and meaningful participation in society, said a press release issued.

The resolution calls for sustainable access to quality, affordable assistive technology for all who need it, and encourages member states to develop national strategies along with priority lists of assistive products tailored to their populations.

It further promotes stronger research and innovation in the sector, calls for improved data collection to guide policymaking, and urges the establishment of appropriate procurement systems to widen availability.

With its adoption by consensus, the resolution reflects broad international support for embedding assistive technology access within the global development framework, positioning it as a shared priority across education, health, employment and social protection systems worldwide.