UN General Assembly adopts Pakistan-led assistive technology resolution

UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted a Pakistan-led resolution aimed at expanding access to assistive technology for people who need it.

The resolution, titled “Access to Assistive Technology,” marks the first time the UN General Assembly has adopted a dedicated resolution on the issue.

Pakistan introduced the resolution with the aim of placing assistive technology within the wider global development and social inclusion agenda.

Speaking before the resolution was adopted, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said access to assistive technology is closely linked to several areas of human development.

He highlighted its importance for education, employment, healthcare and social protection. He also stressed that access to such technology can help people participate more meaningfully in society.

Assistive technology includes products and services designed to help people overcome physical, sensory, communication or other functional difficulties. These can range from mobility devices and hearing aids to communication and digital technologies.

The Pakistan-led resolution calls for greater and sustainable access to high-quality and affordable assistive products. It encourages countries to develop national policies and strategies to ensure that people can obtain the technologies they require.

The resolution also encourages governments to establish priority lists of assistive products according to their national needs. Such measures are intended to improve planning, availability and affordability.

Research and innovation are another key focus of the resolution. It urges greater efforts to develop appropriate and affordable assistive technologies while strengthening the collection and use of data.

The resolution also highlights the importance of effective procurement systems. Better procurement practices can help countries improve the availability of assistive products while ensuring that resources are used efficiently.

Pakistan also stressed the importance of involving people who use or benefit from assistive technology in decision-making processes. Their participation can help governments and institutions design policies and products that better respond to real needs.

The consensus adoption at the General Assembly represents a significant diplomatic and policy achievement for Pakistan. It also places assistive technology more firmly within international discussions on inclusive development.