Access to Sexual Rights for all People with Disabilities: The Need to See and Include the Experiences of People with Intellectual Disability

Abstract

The Target Article by Benoit et al. (2022) discusses disability as an umbrella term for impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions, with an evolving understanding promoted by the World Health Organization and the United Nations. However, the application of this understanding, particularly for people with intellectual disabilities, may not adequately address their unique experiences of sexuality. People with intellectual disabilities face various barriers to sexual rights, including restrictive policies, practices, and negative social attitudes. The review by Benoit et al. (2022) lacks differentiation in addressing these specific challenges. Narrative research with people with intellectual disabilities highlights their agency, challenges restrictive practices, and emphasizes the importance of inclusive research and self-advocacy. The UNCRPD falls short in addressing the sexuality rights of people with intellectual disabilities, and there is a need for alliances between disability rights and sex worker advocacy to ensure inclusive sexual assistance services. The holistic approach should consider physical support, education, cultural change, and a differentiated understanding of sexual rights for people with intellectual disabilities. The Commentary raises questions about the appropriateness of a broad approach when addressing the barriers to sexual rights and emphasizes the need to recognize the unique experiences of people with intellectual disabilities in shaping laws, policies, and practices related to their sexual citizenship.