A conference to launch the Council of Europe`s new Disability Strategy 2017-2023 will be held on March 27 and 28, in Nicosia.

According to an official announcement, the conference is co-organised by the Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance of Cyprus and the Council of Europe, in the framework of the Cypriot Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.

The conference will provide a platform for an exchange in five priority areas, including equality and non-discrimination, awareness raising, accessibility, equal recognition before the law, freedom from exploitation and violence and abuse.

Minister of Labour Zeta Emilianides and CoE Human Rights Commissioner Nils Muižnieks will address the conference.

Other participants include CoE senior officials and representatives of CoE member states, international organizations, local and regional authorities, NGOs, Media and academic personnel, as well as MEPs, people with disabilities and others.