Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 18 September, the National Human Rights Center of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with the Association of Disabled People of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Emergency Situations, held a practical seminar in the Botanical Garden of Tashkent titled “Assistance for People with Disabilities During Emergencies.”

The seminar was opened by Dilnoza Muratova, Deputy Director of the National Human Rights Center, Oybek Isakov, Chairman of the Association of Disabled People of Uzbekistan, and Talat Muradov, Chairman of the “Veteran” Association.

Article 11 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, “Situations of Risk and Humanitarian Emergencies,” mandates that participating states take all necessary measures to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in emergency situations, including natural disasters.

In light of this, actions and measures were discussed and implemented to ensure the right to life and health of people with disabilities and others with limited mobility during pandemics and other emergencies.

The seminar was attended by employees of government agencies, representatives of public organizations for people with disabilities, and civil society institutions.

During the event, participants were introduced to the latest equipment designed to assist people with disabilities in emergencies. They gained insight into how the republic’s emergency services and volunteers conduct rescue operations for people with disabilities during crises.

The practical sessions provided not only theoretical information but also direct observation of rescue, evacuation, and the safe relocation of people with disabilities during emergencies.

Ludmila Gorenkova, a coordinator of the republic’s emergency service and an expert instructor in emergency assistance, conducted a practical demonstration on implementing state programs aimed at reducing the risk of natural disasters for the population, including people with disabilities, during emergencies.

Special rescue equipment was showcased, including vehicles for evacuating people with disabilities, rescue ropes, and evacuation devices. Detailed information was provided on the modern techniques and technologies used in such situations.

The seminar also demonstrated the use of special equipment for rescuing people with disabilities during natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, fires, and other emergencies. Rescuers exhibited the full process of transporting people with disabilities using specialized devices, ensuring their safe relocation, and providing necessary assistance.

Ensuring temporary housing and safety measures for people with disabilities after emergency evacuations is crucial. The practical sessions explained how to equip specially organized temporary shelters for emergencies, create comfortable conditions for people with disabilities, monitor their health, and provide prompt medical assistance.

Measures implemented by the state to provide immediate medical care to people with disabilities and create conditions tailored to their needs in such shelters were thoroughly discussed. Volunteers and rescuers shared their knowledge on ensuring the safety of people with disabilities.

The practical training provided participants with extensive information about the modern technical tools used to rescue people with disabilities and the tactics to ensure their safety. The importance of understanding the needs of this group and approaching them with care was emphasized.

Additionally, the capabilities of emergency services at the national level to assist people with disabilities were demonstrated. According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, training is conducted in higher education institutions on how to evacuate citizens, including people with disabilities, during emergencies. These sessions are led by qualified specialists experienced in working with this population, helping students develop specific emergency response skills.

At the conclusion of the event, a special brochure titled “Assistance for Persons with Disabilities During Emergencies” was presented. This booklet contains detailed information on how to protect and assist people with disabilities during emergencies.

Participants acknowledged that the seminar was an important step toward protecting the rights of people with disabilities and creating a safe environment for them. Special attention was given to the need for further strengthening cooperation and regularly organizing such events.

In essence, this practical activity not only aims to enhance knowledge and skills in assisting people with disabilities but also plays a vital role in identifying and developing measures that must be implemented based on international standards to protect their rights during emergencies.