PAKISTAN is one of the countries with no representation of the disabled in parliament. Unfortunately, this is despite the fact that around seven per cent people in the country fall under the category of ‘special persons’. Disability is a serious public health issue that continues to be neglected in Pakistan.

With inclusivity an accepted target for all societies, political parties should develop a consensus on nominating people with disabilities for the forthcoming election of Senate to ensure due representation in parliament.

As a matter of fact, United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) affirms that all disabled individuals have the right to participate in elections and public affairs. That, in other words, say, means the right to be elected, the right to have equal access to public services, and the right to be heard and represented.

As a parliamentarian, the disabled can participate directly in the framing of health policies as well as programmes that receive public and political attention and resources, and are of utmost importance. They can also play the role of leading change-makers, driving political commitment to improving health outcomes, especially those related to the disabled.

Dr Saif R.K.
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, March 12th, 2024