Towards a Rights Based Perspective on Disability

The right of everyone to “life, liberty and security of person” is stated in the article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, whereas article 9 forbids “arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.” These provisions are of great importance for mentally disabled persons who are subject to unlawful detention. Furthermore, article 8 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights states ” except on such ground and in accordance with such procedures as are established by law”