SPECIAL Projects Officer at the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Alicia Jerome-Reece, delivered a powerful statement, underscoring Guyana’s unwavering efforts in strengthening inclusivity and creating a world free from exploitation, violence and abuse for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Delivering her speech at the 19th Conference of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, under the theme ‘Creating a World Free from Exploitation, Violence and Abuse for All Persons with Disabilities,’ Jerome-Reece underscored that Guyana’s constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability.
Guyana, she said, has made advances in legislative, institutional and support measures, to prevent and respond to exploitation, violence, and abuse against persons with disabilities.
According to Jerome-Reece, “Our Combatting of Trafficking in Persons Act strengthens protections for persons with disabilities by recognising disability within the context of vulnerability. It imposes stringent penalties for offenders and provides victim assistance and training that is responsive to the specific needs of victims, including persons with disabilities.”
Furthermore, she mentioned that Guyana’s Family Violence Act strengthens legal safeguards, including for PWDs. The act ensures that abuse occurring within care or support management is addressed and that persons with disabilities are afforded appropriate protection.
These protections are complemented by responsive services, including shelters, psychosocial support and case management referrals.
“A hotline service facilitates reporting of all forms of violence and abuse and connects survivors to essential support services. Access to justice is also advanced through legal aid support, court accessibility measures, online participation, e-litigation, and a family court and a mental health court,” the Special Projects Officer said.
Jerome-Reece further said that Guyana will continue its efforts to strengthen these mechanisms and public awareness while at the same time, fostering close collaboration with persons with disabilities, their representative organisation, and partners to advance protection.
