Liberian Disability Coalition Takes Rights Fight to the UN

The Coalition of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities in Liberia has officially submitted a comprehensive report on the state of disability rights in the country to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Geneva, Switzerland.

The report was presented via a virtual platform, with key representatives from various disability groups speaking on behalf of their groups. Lovetta Savage represented the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, Abraham Kanneh spoke for persons with physical disabilities, while Beyan Kota presented on behalf of the visually impaired community.

Details of the submission were disclosed during a one-day dialogue organized by the National Union of Organizations of the Disabled at the Corena Hotel in Monrovia. The event brought together stakeholders and advocates to discuss the report's findings and recommendations.

The coalition's report highlights major challenges affecting persons with disabilities in Liberia, focusing on widespread discrimination, lack of accessibility to public services, and weak accountability mechanisms. It underscores the urgent need for inclusive policies and stronger enforcement of disability rights protections.

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A key recommendation in the document calls on the Liberian government to take concrete steps to repeal or amend discriminatory legal provisions, including constitutional clauses that equate disability with incapacity. Advocates argue that such provisions continue to marginalize persons with disabilities and limit their full participation in national development.

Additionally, the report urges authorities to strengthen accessibility standards for public infrastructure, improve access to education and healthcare services, and ensure equal employment opportunities.

The coalition emphasized that meaningful reforms and sustained political will are critical to advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities across Liberia.

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