Kuwait: Jasour – News Desk
Dr. Hiba Hegres, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the necessity of enhancing the leadership of women and girls with special needs for an inclusive and sustainable future.
In her remarks to “KUNA” during the regional consultative session for the Middle East and North Africa organized by the Kuwaiti Union of Women’s Associations, Hegres mentioned that a number of UN experts called on governments to strengthen the leadership of individuals with special needs in a statement released on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3.
She added that the experts highlighted that women and girls with special needs are disproportionately affected by poverty, lack of healthcare, including sexual and reproductive health, limited access to inclusive education and employment opportunities, and use of digital devices and technology, as well as increased exposure to abuse and violence.
Hegres further explained that the experts also noted that denying women and girls with intellectual and psychological disabilities legal capacity often strips them of their freedom to make significant choices. She stressed the necessity of fully consulting them on all policies affecting their lives and involving them in all discussions and decision-making processes.
