One in five women around the world live with disability, yet barriers continue to affect their equitable participation in society as well as in political processes and decision making. Data from UN Women in 2017 show that women with disabilities are still significantly underrepresented in government decision making, in national organizations of persons with disabilities, and in national institutions or machinery for gender equality. In addition, few women lead organizations of persons with disabilities.
Fostering Societal Growth: Exploring How Inclusion Drives the Development Agenda
In 2025, Barbados enacted the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, which came just three months after the government introduced a seven-year policy aimed at addressing the needs of persons with disabilities. As contemporary development faces social, economic, political, and environmental challenges, it is essential for any society striving to achieve its goals to vigorously promote the inclusion of all its members.
Special Guest Lecture: Behind the Scenes of U.S. Environmental Policy-Making
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the inner workings of the U.S. environmental policy process! We are excited to welcome Dr. Michal Freedhoff, former Assistant Administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP) and past Biden administration appointee, for an engaging guest lecture.
Considering applying to grad school?
The Guelph Institute of Development Studies is pleased to launch a new course-based, 8-month graduate program, the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice.
Join us for an info session where we'll introduce the new program, break down the application process, and share tips on strengthening your application to grad school.
Join Dr. Martha Paynter to explore her 20-year effort in promoting abortion access in Canada
As an activist, writer, nurse, and public scholar, she is renowned worldwide for her knowledge at the intersection of reproductive justice and prisoner health.
