By: Austria

Members of the International Telecommunication Union,

Certain statements made at the microphone on the floor of the committee have necessitated the Delegation of the Republic of Austria to write that, contrary to the stance of Burkina Faso, persons with disabilities are not—in fact—a “drain on resources.” The efforts we are pursuing in our committee toward creating more inclusive access to information and communication technologies for persons with disabilities and specific needs should never be thought of solely as a financial burden. It is the responsibility of governments worldwide to promote civic access in society for all people. By addressing this topic in committee and deliberating for just and equitable solutions to include everyone, we are not looking at cutting costs, but at recognizing the humanity and dignity inherent in all people.

_{The views and opinions expressed in this article were part of simulation of the United Nations held from 18 to 21 November 2023 and do not reflect the views and opinions of the American Model United Nations Conference, American Model United Nations International, LLC., University of Missouri-Columbia or the governing bodies of the states mentioned in the article.}