Empowerment Beyond Neglect: Urgent Reforms for the Rights of People with Disabilities in Somalia

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 Today, on this International Day of People with Disabilities, let us unite in demanding action from Somalia's authorities and stakeholders. It's time to move beyond rhetoric and take tangible steps towards creating a more equitable, inclusive society—one where the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of ability, are upheld and protected

 As the world commemorates the International Day of People with Disabilities, it's crucial to shine a spotlight on Somalia's concerning indifference towards safeguarding the rights of its disabled citizens. Despite ratifying the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of People with Disabilities in 2019, Somalia has stagnated in its commitment to implement and domesticate these crucial protections.

The Disability Act, designed to serve as a shield for individuals with disabilities, remains in legislative limbo, lacking passage and enforcement. Shockingly, Somalia has faltered in fulfilling its obligation to submit periodic reports on the status of disability rights—a fundamental requirement every four years under the ratified convention.

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Somalia, entrusted with the task of championing the rights of disabled individuals, have regrettably fallen short. Their failure to submit reports on disability rights further compounds the systemic neglect faced by this marginalized community.

Moreover, Disabled People's Organizations (DPOs) in Somalia grapple with an acute scarcity of resources, impeding their ability to advocate effectively for the rights of their members. This lack of support undermines their crucial role in pushing for meaningful change and amplifying the voices of those whose rights have been overlooked for far too long.

The consequences of this neglect are dire and multifaceted. Persons with disabilities in Somalia encounter barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and societal inclusion. Their potential remains untapped, shackled by a system that fails to provide the necessary support and accommodations for them to thrive.

In the realm of human rights, the plight of individuals with disabilities often remains a neglected chapter, and nowhere is this more evident than in Somalia. Despite strides towards inclusion, the reality for those living with disabilities in this nation is marred by a stark absence of access to essential services, discriminatory practices, and an alarming lack of support. The situation is further exacerbated by the opaque management of allocated funds and a blatant oversight by the authorities responsible for their welfare.

Somalia, including Somaliland, has long grappled with the issue of catering to the needs of its disabled population. While the approval of 2 percent of the national budget by the Somaliland parliament was a step in the right direction, the promised benefits have failed to manifest tangibly. Transparency in the allocation and utilization of these crucial funds has remained elusive, leaving a void of accountability that only deepens the struggles faced by people with disabilities.

The most disheartening reality lies in the treatment of those with mental health conditions. They endure the brunt of neglect, facing insurmountable barriers due to societal stigmatization compounded by governmental indifference. The very authorities entrusted with their welfare have turned a blind eye, forsaking their fundamental duty to safeguard and uplift the most vulnerable.

The time for change is not just pressing; it is long overdue. The rights of individuals with disabilities must no longer be an afterthought but a foundational aspect of societal progress. It begins with a collective commitment to reform, driven by compassion, empathy, and a firm belief in equality for all.

The first imperative step lies in the transparent and accountable management of allocated funds. The promise of financial support must transcend bureaucratic red tape and be channeled effectively towards initiatives that facilitate access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure tailored for the disabled community. This demands a stringent monitoring system to ensure the funds are utilized for their intended purpose, creating visible improvements in the lives of those they were meant to serve.

Furthermore, a seismic shift in societal attitudes is imperative. Education and awareness campaigns must be launched to dismantle prejudiced perceptions and foster inclusivity. Embracing diversity and acknowledging the talents, capabilities, and contributions of individuals with disabilities will pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious society.

It is incumbent upon the government to not merely acknowledge but champion the cause of people with disabilities. Robust policies, tailored support systems, and enforcement of anti-discriminatory laws are pivotal to creating an environment where their rights are protected and upheld without compromise.

The time for rhetoric and token gestures has passed. Somalia must prioritize action, making concrete strides towards a society where the rights of individuals with disabilities are not just recognized but zealously defended.

Let us not measure progress solely in words spoken or resolutions passed, but in lives transformed and barriers dismantled. It is in this endeavor that the true spirit of inclusivity thrives, and the essence of humanity finds its noblest expression. Somalia must acknowledge and rectify these glaring inadequacies in its approach to disability rights. The time for half-hearted commitments and empty promises has passed. Concrete actions must be taken to address these systemic deficiencies:

 Recommendations

  1. Immediate passage and enforcement of the Disability Act are paramount to ensure legal protections for individuals with disabilities.
  2. Somalia must fulfill its obligation by promptly submitting comprehensive reports on the status of disability rights, enabling a transparent assessment of the current situation.
  3. Adequate resources and support must be allocated to empower CSOs and DPOs, enabling them to effectively advocate for disability rights and ensure their voices are heard.
  4. Implementation of inclusive policies across education, employment, healthcare, and social services to dismantle barriers and foster a more inclusive society.
#DisabilityIsNotInability
#HumanRights.
#CRPD
Yousef Timacade is a lawyer, legal analyst, and commentator with over a decade of experience in program management, research, and human rights advocacy. He holds master’s degrees in both law and executive management, which have equipped him with a unique blend of legal expertise and leadership acumen. Throughout his career, he has worked with numerous national and international non-governmental organizations, driving impactful initiatives in the areas of human rights, policy development, and social justice. Currently, Yousef serves as the Country Coordinator for Somalia and Somaliland at SIHA Network, where he leads efforts to advance women's rights and advocate for marginalized communities.

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