In late June, Canada became the 20th nation to ratify the Marrakesh Treaty, which will significantly increase the number of braille and audio books available to people who are visually impaired or otherwise unable to read print materials.
“This is a game-changer for people who are blind, especially in developing countries,” said Dave Power, president and CEO of Perkins School for the Blind. “Access to books is core to our mission as educators, and we know that the Marrakesh Treaty will enable more people with visual impairments to meaningfully participate in school, employment and culture.”
With Canada’s action, the Marrakesh Treaty becomes binding on the 20 countries that ratified the treaty, including India, Mexico, the Republic of Korea, Australia and Brazil. The treaty formally goes into force on Sept. 30, 2016.
The United States has not yet ratified the Marrakesh Treaty. The Obama administration sent the Marrakesh Treaty to the Senate in February 2016 and urged that body to ratify it. Perkins has information available for individuals who want to advocate for ratification.