JUST under a year after ratifying the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Solomon Islands attended for the first time as a state party the 17th Conference of State Parties of the Convention (COSP) of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which was held in New York 11th – 13th June, 2024.
During the General Debate, member countries, international organizations and civil society organizations that promote rights of persons with disabilities presented statements in the Conference.
In delivering Solomon Islands statement, Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ms. Fiona Indu said with 10 percent of Solomon Islanders experiencing one form of disability there is a high probability of the numbers increasing with the high prevalence of non-communicable disease nationally.
She said the plight of persons with disabilities is exacerbated by the impacts of climate change, geographical spread of our islands, and competing priorities for limited resources.
As demonstration of its commitment to the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Solomon Islands government recently established the National Disability Inclusive Development Policy 2022-2031.
“This provides the framework for implementation and optimizes disability inclusion from public health focus to human rights, access to economic opportunities, improved education and health care services,” Ms Indu remarked.
Other complimentary programmes that form an important integral part of care and services for persons with disabilities are also outlined in the Solomon Islands Rehabilitation Strategic Plan 2021-2031 and the Solomon Islands Mental health policy.
She however stressed that the translation and implementation of these policies, requires a whole of government approach together with stakeholders, including the consistent support and advocacy by all, and in particular the People with Disabilities Solomon Islands Association.
Ms Indu reiterates the Government of Solomon Islands commitment to ensuring the full and effective participation of people with disabilities at all levels.
“We do recognize we have shortcomings, and therefore value partnerships that can enhance our efforts nationally,” She stated.
The Solomon Islands delegate urged participating states to use this Conference to re-assess their global commitment, to ensure full, equal, meaningful and effective participation of persons with disabilities at all levels.
“We believe the Summit of Future will provide a great opportunity to propel us closer to the full realization of human rights for persons with disabilities and the achievement of the 2030 Agenda.
The annual meeting of the Conference of State parties, to the CRPD provides an important space for the collective voice of the global community to promote issues relating to persons with disabilities.
The Permanent Mission of Solomon Islands to the United Nations acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (CBR Division) for the collaboration and support to ensure Solomon Islands attendance at its first COSP was a success.
–MFAET PRESS RELEASE
