HRCM expresses concern over issues related to rights of people with disabilities

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has today stated that the laws protecting the rights and interests of people with disabilities and special needs are not being implemented in conformity to their true spirit and objectives. HRCM also said that there is no system of protection and security for such people in the Maldives.

A Press Release issued by the HRCM today to mark the International Human Rights Day and also the 8th anniversary of the Commission, said that state authorities and institutions throughout the country have failed to provide necessary security and support to the disabled and persons with special needs.

The Statement said that orphans, elderly people, destitute persons and mentally impaired persons are usually abused and taken advantage of, instead of them being provided with the support and proper care they are entitled to.

The Statement of the HRCM said that the government has failed to fulfill its obligations to institute an effective system to protect the rights of the said classes of people.

“Resources and infrastructure to support the people mentioned are to be established. The legal protection ensured for them must be realized, and immediate steps need to be taken in order to achieve these ends”, read the HRCM Statement.