Report on the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Inclusion of Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity

Introduction

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) is a legally binding international instrument that establishes minimum rights standards for individuals with disabilities. As the first human rights convention to which the EU has become a party, it holds significant importance. The UN Convention affirms that individuals with disabilities possess the same rights as all other individuals and outlines the obligations of countries to protect and ensure these rights. It represents the international community’s response to a long history of discrimination, exclusion, and dehumanization experienced by persons with disabilities. The UN Convention has been implemented in over 190 member countries of the UN.

The term “persons with disabilities” encompasses individuals with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments which, in interaction with attitudinal and environmental barriers, may hinder their full and effective participation in society. It is important to note that there is no exhaustive list of disabilities.

This report presents the findings of a survey conducted to assess the implementation of the UN Convention, with a specific focus on the inclusion of Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS).

Survey Methodology

In February 2024, a survey titled “How is the UN Convention on Disabilities Implemented in Your Country?” was launched. ESC have asked our members this question. Responses were received from fifteen of our members, along with colleagues from other countries, including those outside Europe. A comprehensive analysis of the responses is available upon request.

Survey Findings

The survey’s findings highlight key issues related to the implementation of the UN Convention and the recognition and inclusion of EHS.

Applicability of the UN Convention to EHS

The UN Convention is applicable to all disabilities. However, the survey revealed a significant disparity in its application to individuals with EHS.

• Application of the UN Convention to EHS:
  • Yes: 1 response (1%)
  • No: 11 responses (68%)
  • Do not know: 3 responses (31%)
• Are you satisfied with the opportunities of EHS people to participate in society/your country?
  Responses highlight dissatisfaction among individuals with EHS regarding their opportunities to participate in society. Key themes from the feedback include: Recognition of EHS, Accessibility and Support Awareness and Public Attitudes
• Is EHS accepted in your country as a disability or disease?
  Responses vary widely and reveal a lack of consensus across different countries and institutions. Key points include: Acceptance as a Disability, Denial or Misinterpretation, Association with Mental Illness, Rare or Partial Recognition.
• Do authorities have sufficient knowledge/expertise of EHS?
  Responses are overwhelmingly negative. Key points include: Lack of Knowledge, Resistance to Acknowledgment, Educational Gaps, Adherence to Outdated Standards
• Do doctors have sufficient knowledge/expertise of EHS?
  Responses indicate that doctors generally lack sufficient knowledge or expertise regarding EHS. Key points include: Lack of Formal Education, Negative Reactions, Minimal Awareness Efforts, Reliance on Symptoms, Individual Advocacy

Follow-Up Actions

The ESC has initiated activities to address the issues raised in the survey.

• In October 2024, the ESC Board urged all ESC Members to raise the issue of EHS at the national level, offering support in the form of draft text for adaptation and translation.
• In January 2025, the ESC met with Mrs. Lucie Davoine, Head of Unit Disability and Inclusion, to share the survey’s conclusions.
  • Mrs. Davoine acknowledged the issues and expressed a willingness to support a strategy within the Commission, although the form of support remains unclear.
  • Recommendations were made to:
    • Consider the European Disability Card
    • Contact the European Disability Forum
    • Register in the Disability Platform
    • Promote awareness of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) pollution to the Coordination Units of DG CONNECT, SANTÉ, and DG Environment.

Conclusion

The survey findings underscore the need for improved implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, particularly concerning the recognition and inclusion of individuals with Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity. Further efforts are needed to raise awareness, improve knowledge and expertise among relevant stakeholders, and ensure that individuals with EHS are afforded the same rights and opportunities as all other individuals.