FHRADC calls for investment in disability inclusion

The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) is calling for significant and sustained investment to protect the rights of children with disabilities, stressing that legal frameworks alone are insufficient. FHRADC Commissioner Veena Singh highlighted that genuine progress requires actions deeply rooted in the actual experiences of these children and their families.

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The findings make it clear that achieving the rights of children with disabilities requires more than legislation and policy commitments alone. It requires coordinated, sustained, and adequately resourced actions across all sectors, grounded in the lived experiences and voices of children with disabilities and their families.

"The findings make it clear that achieving the rights of children with disabilities requires more than legislation and policy commitments alone," Singh stated. "It requires coordinated, sustained, and adequately resourced actions across all sectors, grounded in the lived experiences and voices of children with disabilities and their families." She emphasized that meaningful investment must go beyond specialized services to foster inclusive systems and accessible environments for all.

A national baseline study, which provides a roadmap for action, has identified 24 recommendations. These cover crucial areas such as education, health, social protection, and governance. Permanent Secretary for Women and Children Selina Kuruleca noted that the study's findings will inform evidence-based decision-making, stating, "Good intentions alone cannot build inclusive societies. Policies must be informed by reliable evidence."

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Good intentions alone cannot build inclusive societies. Policies must be informed by reliable evidence.

Kuruleca urged that the baseline study serve as a catalyst for action, guiding the development of stronger policies, better services, more accessible communities, and enhanced opportunities for children with disabilities. The study revealed that despite Fiji's legislative progress and awareness initiatives, children with disabilities still face significant barriers in accessing essential services due to physical inaccessibility, stigma, and discrimination.

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This baseline study must not become another report on the shelf, gathering dust. Let it become a catalyst for action. Let it guide stronger policies, better services, more accessible communities, and more meaningful opportunities for children with disabilities.