The African Union has congratulated Ethiopia and Benin following their election to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) for the 2027–2030 term.

The two African countries were elected among nine new members of the committee.

The AU said the election marks an important step in advancing and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities globally, while strengthening their representation and voice in international decision-making.

The development aligns with Africa's broader commitments under Agenda 2063 and the global Agenda 2030 framework.

The Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is a body of independent experts established under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, a landmark UN treaty adopted in 2006 to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.

The committee comprises 18 experts from different regions of the world who serve in their personal capacity rather than as representatives of their governments. Members are elected by states that have ratified the convention.

The election of candidates from Ethiopia and Benin for the 2027–2030 term strengthens Africa's representation in global disability rights discussions.

Committee members review state reports, issue recommendations, and help ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and protections in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, political participation, and accessibility.

The election also supports the goals of the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, both of which emphasize inclusion and the principle of leaving no one behind.