UNITED NATIONS A General Assembly Distr. GENERAL A/HRC/10/48 26 January 2009 Original: ENGLISH HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL Tenth session Agenda item 2 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND REPORTS OF THE OFFICE OF THE HIGH COMMISSIONER AND THE SECRETARY-GENERAL Thematic Study by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on enhancing awareness and understanding of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities* ** Summary The present study focuses on legal measures required for the ratification and effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Chapter I clarifies the steps States need to take at both national and international level for the ratification of the Convention and highlights key issues for consideration relating to reservations and declarations lodged on the Convention. Chapter II identifies measures required by States to give effect to the Convention in the national legal order and highlights areas where adoption of or amendment to legislation might be required for compliance. Illustrative examples are provided in the areas of equality and non-discrimination, accessibility, legal capacity, liberty and security, independent living, education, and work and employment. Chapter III reviews the core features of the national monitoring and implementation system envisaged by the Convention and highlights aspects where adoption or amendment to legislation might be required. Chapter IV sets out conclusions and recommendations for ratification and effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. * The footnotes are circulated in the language of submission only. ** Late submission. GE.09-10455 (E) 050209