St. Kitts and Nevis to Strengthen Protection of Persons with Disabilities

Basseterre, St. Kitts – St. Kitts and Nevis will increase its protection of persons with disabilities while strengthening empowerment opportunities with the review of the 2017 disabilities policy and drafting of a Disabilities Bill.

Minister of State for Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities Gives Update

Senator, the Honourable Isalean Phillip, shared that the exercise was currently underway, while giving an update on her ministries during the first day of debate on the 2025 Budget on December 17, 2024.

“We are moving steadily along with alacrity on consultations in order to finalise the draft of our National Disability Policy,” Senator Phillip stated. “That work has certainly started and is near completion. I anticipate that we will come back to this Honourable House in 2025 to table those documents (the policy and Bill).”

A Long-Overdue Push for Change

For many years, individuals with disabilities and their supporters have advocated for meaningful changes to improve the quality of life and conditions for those living with disabilities, who are often marginalised in society.

Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities

Upon assuming office in August 2022, the Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, established the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities to provide focused attention to issues affecting the disabled community. Since then, the ministry has enhanced public awareness of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, implemented new policies to promote accessibility for all, and ensured that people with disabilities, or those impacted by them, have a stronger presence in public consultations and forums.

A New Era of Inclusivity

As the minister of state responsible for the ministry, Honourable Phillip expressed pleasure that she is a part of the policy-making group leading this critical push for change.

Conclusion

St. Kitts and Nevis is taking a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society for individuals with disabilities. The review of the 2017 disabilities policy and drafting of a Disabilities Bill will ensure that persons with disabilities are protected and empowered to reach their full potential.

FAQs

* What is the purpose of the review of the 2017 disabilities policy?
* To strengthen the protection of persons with disabilities and empowerment opportunities.
* What is the expected outcome of the drafting of the Disabilities Bill?
* The Bill will ensure that persons with disabilities are protected and empowered to reach their full potential.
* What is the role of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities?
* The ministry provides focused attention to issues affecting the disabled community, promotes accessibility, and ensures that people with disabilities have a stronger presence in public consultations and forums.
* What is the expected timeline for the tabled documents (policy and Bill)?
* The Honourable House is expected to receive the documents in 2025.