Sightsavers’ 2019 election manifesto: What we want from the next government

Here’s where we stand and what we want to see from whoever is leading the country after the UK general election on 12 December.

We’re calling on the next UK government to:

• tackle inequality and marginalisation
• make UK aid inclusive of people with disabilities
• leave no one behind in plans to fight global poverty
• keep working to eliminate neglected tropical diseases
• support strong global health systems and affordable, accessible healthcare

2020 is a crucial year for the UK and countries around the world. It marks a ten-year countdown to achieve the Global Sustainable Development Goals. The 17 goals, which were agreed by world leaders in 2015, set out a global commitment to end poverty and put the world on a path to inclusive development by 2030.

The goals will help bring about a more equitable world for everyone, including one billion people with disabilities worldwide, 800 million of whom live in developing countries. Many people with disabilities currently experience significant barriers in claiming their right to education, healthcare and employment, and to participate fully in political life.

It’s vital that the next UK government – whichever party or parties it includes – is ready to meet the country’s commitment, made at the 2018 Global Disability Summit, to become a global leader on disability, and support others to become more disability-inclusive. By doing this, the UK can help make sure that real change is delivered for the world’s poorest and most marginalised people.