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People with intellectual disabilities are among the most marginalized and vulnerable groups in our societies, measures such as those proposed by Rwanda despite their international obligations under the Convention, serve to dehumanize and devalue people. Diane Richler, President of Inclusion International, "People with intellectual disabilities all over the world continue to be victims of human rights abuses. The CRPD was conceived to protect against these kinds of abuses by governments and society. We must build awareness of human rights and call on governments to respect and promote those rights. " For More Information Contact:Connie Laurin BowieDirector, Policy and ProgrammesInclusion Internationalc/o Canadian Association for Community Living4700 Keele St. , York University, Kinsman BuildingToronto, Ontario, CANADA, M3J 1P3Phone: 416 661 9611 ext. 203, Fax: 416661 5701Email: conniel@inclusion international. org Human Rights Watch Press releaseJuly 1, 2009 Compulsory HIV testing, sterilization of disabled violate rights New York The Rwandan Parliament should remove provisions in a draft lawthat would mandate compulsory HIV testing and require the sterilization ofall individuals with intellectual disabilities, Human Rights Watch saidtoday. The organization said that the provisions, in a reproductive healthbill, are deeply flawed and violate the government's obligations to upholdand protect human rights. "Compulsory HIV testing and forced sterilization are counterproductive tothe Rwandan government's goal of improved reproductive health," said JoeAmon, health and human rights director at Human Rights Watch. "Provisions inthe current bill that increase stigma, rely on coercion, and denyindividuals their reproductive rights should be removed.