The incumbent government faces myriad challenges – the weak economy, rising terrorism, and ever-evolving climate change. But one grave concern for it should be the rights of people with disabilities (PWDs), one of the most disadvantaged communities in the country. An UNDP estimate suggests that around 6.5 per cent of Pakistan’s population has some sort of physical or mental disability. These people are not well accommodated in education institutions and workplaces and are isolated from the overall social and cultural life. The government promises a 2.0 per cent quota for PWDs in all departments, but it is rarely seen being implemented. The absence of modern assistive technology, including braille devices, electric wheelchairs, and screen-reading software, also hinders the progress of students with special needs.
Pakistan is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The need, therefore, is to ensure the participation of PWDs in all sectors of life. The provision of accessibility resources and accommodating infrastructure may serve as a beacon of hope in the lives of these people. An inclusive environment will also serve to show a positive image of Pakistan to the world.
Muhammad Junaid
Mirpur
Azad Jammu and Kashmir
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