Maldives has stressed on the importance of addressing the impact of multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination for persons with disabilities through a cross sectional, multi stakeholder approach, with active mobilization of a broad range of stakeholders.
The statement was made by the Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations, Ahmed Sareer, addressing the 10th conference of the State Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Noting the exclusion that persons with disabilities have to suffer all over the world, owing to multiple forms of discrimination compared to the general public, he stressed on the importance of addressing the impact.
Speaking in this manner, Sareer highlighted that one of the foremost priorities of the Maldivian government in addressing the concerns of persons with disabilities has been, ensuring employment opportunities for all, devoid of discrimination. He highlighted the importance the government gives to provide equal opportunities for all in health, education and employment. He also noted that Maldives immediately enacted the Disability Act, after ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2010.
In that manner he noted the 'No Child Left Behind' policy and the government's 'Universal Healthcare Coverage Program'. Maldives also applauded the progress the world has made in this front. He noted the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the 2030 agenda as a notable improvement from MDGs, which failed to reference the issue.