Communities urged to speak up for children with disabilities

With the deadline on a national study looking into the real challenges faced by children with disabilities approaching, communities and families are encouraged to speak about their respective experiences.

Fiji Human Rights and Anti‑Discrimination Commission director, Loukinikini Lewaravu, is making a final push for submissions before the week ends because many important voices are still missing.

“This is a final call to communities, families, caregivers and stakeholders across Fiji to share their views,” she said.

“With only days remaining, we urge those who have not yet contributed to do so now.”

The study, the first of its kind in Fiji, aims to capture the lived realities of children with disabilities, including the barriers they face in areas such as education, safety and daily life.

The findings will be used to strengthen laws, policies and services.

Ms Lewaravu said the commission has already gathered valuable feedback through talanoa sessions held in both iTaukei and Fiji Hindi, but more input is still needed, especially from those whose voices are often not heard.

“Every voice matters, particularly from families and communities whose experiences are often not heard,” she said.

Information collected will play a key role in shaping national decisions and ensuring that children with disabilities are not left behind.

“We remain committed to ensuring that the voices of children with disabilities are reflected in national decision‑making,” Ms Lewaravu said.

Families, caregivers, teachers, service providers and members of the public can still make their submissions online before the deadline.

The commission continues its drive to hear from as many people as possible.