Rismaharini noted here on Tuesday that in Indonesia, disability inclusion is integrated into the National Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities that regulates the fulfillment of rights of persons with disabilities in various sectors, including health, employment, and education.
"We are still confronted with several challenges in eradicating the stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities, removing various barriers they face, facilitating their participation in various fields, and adapting a life cycle approach to fulfilling the rights of persons with disabilities," she remarked.
The minister made the statement at the ASEAN High-Level Forum on Enabling Disability-Inclusive Development and Partnership Beyond 2025.
Rismaharini highlighted that based on WHO's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health in 2001, the spectrum of disabilities is widening, encompassing various dimensions that can disrupt bodily function and structure, limit daily activities, and hinder participation in society.
To this end, she assessed that the expansion of collaborative programs and action is crucial.
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On that occasion, she also stated that persons with disabilities often become vulnerable groups and become part of the poorest population in the most impoverished regions.
She further pointed out that they are highly vulnerable to adverse effects during social conflicts and can become victims of exploitation and violence during conflicts, disasters, and social crises.
"Upholding the fundamental rights of individuals with disabilities is of utmost importance. This includes the right to live a dignified life and the right to be protected from threats, such as neglect, confinement, institutionalization, and isolation," she stated.
The minister also affirmed that persons with disabilities have the right to be protected from exploitation, torture, cruel treatment, and inhumane practices. These, she believes should become the key focus to create an inclusive and just society for all individuals, including those with disabilities.
"In the era of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which call on all of us to take action, this is indeed a special concern," she affirmed.
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Translator: Devi Nindy, Raka Adji
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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