Authors

  1. Brown, Sharan E. JD, EdD
  2. Guralnick, Michael J. PhD

Abstract

With almost universal ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the growing number of States Parties that have signed or ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the majority of countries in the world have now committed to implementing the human rights articulated in these treaties. In this article, first, we provide an overview of both Conventions, highlight the articles in the treaties that are relevant to early intervention for infants and young children with disabilities, and describe the specific duties required of States Parties to ensure compliance including international cooperation. Second, a series of early intervention action principles is put forward that can help States Parties translate the underlying values of the Conventions into practice.