The different levels in which rights of people living with dementia are guaranteed are outlined in the picture above.
Rights, dignity and autonomy of people living with dementia are universal and guaranteed by international documents, that are legally binding in national level.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities or CRPD is an international document created by the United Nations in 2006 and made legally binding) by 168 countries worldwide (including 27 European Union member states). The essence of the CRPD is to promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities. It aims to ensure their enjoyment of human rights and equality under the law and represents a legal framework for applying generic human rights legislation that is meaningful for people with disabilities. It is far-reaching and calls for fundamental change in terms of society’s approach to understanding and responding to disability (Mental Health Foundation 2015).
The CRPD adopts human rights principles (Article 3, General principles). It defines disability as including “those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others” (United Nations 2006).
Specific articles in Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities relevant for people with dementia :