Iraqi laws need to support rights of persons with disabilities
(Photo courtesy: UNFPA)
Baghdad (United Nations) – Persons with disabilities in Iraq have immeasurable potential and can largely contribute to the economy and society bringing compassion, innovation and resilience to their communities. At the same time, they are the ones who have been most impacted by the various crises that hit Iraq and continue to face significant barriers to be fully included and share equal rights.
The public event backed by UNFPA with the Australian Embassy and the Iraqi Alliance of Disability (IADO), celebrated and recognised the rights of persons with disabilities in Iraq. The event highlighted the achievements and the challenges faced by persons with disabilities on a daily basis through theatrical and musical performances by men and women and children with disabilities.
Speakers including Adel Al-Rakabi, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Mwafaq Al-Khafaji, Head of IADO, Hussein Arab, Member of Parliament, Paula Ganly, Australian Ambassador to Iraq, and Rita Columbia, UNFPA Representative, highlighted the importance of endorsing and legislating laws that promote the rights of people with disabilities and their access to services, ensuring their effective participation in society. Messages insisted on joining efforts to end stigma and discrimination against all persons with disabilities and ensure their full inclusion.
The event ended with selecting disability ambassadors for 2022 and a handicrafts and painting exhibition by people with disabilities.