Today 3rd of December marks the International Day of persons with disabilities. According to WHO, every 10% of the country’s population are people with disabilities, including children.
Persons with disabilities in PNG face tremendous issues daily- most importantly, their survival kit and enabling system.
PNG, a state which ratified UN 6 of the nine treaties, is adhered to the international instrument to improve the approach to persons with disabilities in PNG through services, policies, and programs, and, most importantly, support services that enable these citizens to a daily routine.
PNG state ratified the international convention on the rights of persons with disabilities in 2014 and has the utmost mandate to execute the international treaty.
Disability focus groups in PNG have worked three times harder without the proper state mechanism. This critical issue has been reviewed, and recommendations were provided; however, a few steps have been taken, but we still see no big picture of development.
PNG was fortunate to have a service provider, Callan Services working in PNG since the 1960s and has significantly helped with exceptional education and other services.
Year in and year out, we lobbied and petitioned, but all these have fallen on deaf ears.
The disability bill was presented to the NEC/CACC but is still sitting there.
The state can invest a considerable sum of money in able people but continues to ignore this vulnerable community- our ignorance is a stigma that discriminates against these pwds.
Today on this Pwds Day, I would ask the media to stress our voices that
1. Can the mandated office provide the status of the disability bill?
2. The DSIP and PSIP must have specific fractions that indicate improving services to pwds at the ward and district levels. All MPs must know how many pwds are in their electorate and their needs. This approach may help you.
3. Works department, Procurement board, building board, etc.. consider accessibility for their mobility. It’s time we take some small steps to ensure protections are given, and services are provided.
4. Education department must improve inclusive education in every province in PNG.
5. Include the PWDs in all the processes, so their representation is seen- these are the rightful citizens of this nation.
Magna Carta PNG Inc. would like to thank their partners, who have, in so many ways on many platforms, worked hard to give voice and mandate to PwDs in PNG.
They also thank the church partnership program of the Australian Govt for taking this bold stand to promote and protect the disability space.
Not forgetting all the special eds, carers, sign language interpreters, and community workers, we thank you- you are why these people live.