Historical Step Celebrated This World Disability Day

Thousands of people walked together yesterday to mark International Day for Persons with Disabilities and to applaud Indonesia’s recent commitment to address disability in the country’s development plan.

Indonesia became a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in October 2011.

As a signatory, Indonesia pledges to respect persons with disabilities, encourage full and effective participation and inclusion in society, and promote equal opportunity.

“All too often, people with disabilities do not share the same rights and cannot access the same services as other people do,” said the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Greg Moriarty.

“A series of barriers prevents them from fully participating in social, economic and political life,” added Mr. Moriarty.

The Australian Government, through AusAID, continues to implement an aid program that ensures the needs of persons with disabilities are adequately recognised and addressed.

At yesterday’s event hosted by Indonesia’s Ministry of Social Affairs, the Australian Government was recognised for its commitment to improving outcomes for persons with a disability in Indonesia.

AusAID is supporting disability inclusive development across a range of sectors in Indonesia, including education, health, social protection, and justice.

Media enquiries:
Mia Salim – AusAID Public Affairs – 08121070237