About Robbie
Dr. Robbie Francis Watene is a scholar, leader and human rights defender from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. With 36 years lived experience of disability, Robbie has worked in the disability sector for over 16 years as a support worker, humanitarian documentarian, social entrepreneur, researcher, consultant, and advisor. She has experience working with disabled people in France, Bangladesh, India, Mexico, Colombia and Ecuador, and has spearheaded research on gender, war and disability rights. Robbie is Disabled-Led Research Lead at the Donald Beasley Institute, where she oversees a variety of disability rights research projects and a team of disabled researchers. Robbie serves on various governance boards and is Mum to 4-year-old Mita, and 18-month old Te Kawehaumārie (Ngāti Maru (Hauraki), Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hine, Te Rarawa).
Accolades and Speaking Engagements
Coming Soon
Abstract
This qualitative, multi-country study examines how Article 33.3 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)—the provision requiring the involvement of disabled people in monitoring implementation—is being realized in practice. The research draws on interviews and focus groups with 17 disabled leaders and experts across 11 countries in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
Findings reveal both promising progress and persistent barriers. While some governments demonstrate meaningful buy-in, disability leadership, and rights-based education, participants overwhelmingly report systemic challenges including underfunding, political instability, limited training and awareness, tokenistic disability employment, outdated charity and medical models of disability, and exclusion of Indigenous and multiply marginalised disabled people. Fatigue, competition, and resource scarcity within Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs) further strain monitoring efforts.
The study offers targeted recommendations for States and civil society to strengthen independent monitoring, mobilise sustainable resources, embed disabled leadership, and expand inclusive participation. Ultimately, the research positions Article 33.3 as the “soul of the Convention” and affirms that without active, disabled person–led accountability, disability rights risk remaining words on paper rather than lived reality.