Dili, 4 July 2024 – Maria Marilia da Costa, Deputy Ombudswoman for Human Rights, urged all entities to foster a more inclusive society in Timor-Leste during the commemoration of the National Day of People with Disabilities on 4 July 2024 at Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili.
On this occasion, the Deputy Ombudswoman called upon all entities to seriously consider the articles outlined in the Constitution of RDTL, particularly Article 16 which guarantees equal rights and obligations for all citizens before the law and prohibits discrimination based on ethnicity, race, marital status, or physical and mental condition. She also highlighted Article 21, which specifically addresses the rights and obligations of individuals with physical and mental disabilities, emphasizing that they have rights equal to other citizens and that the state is obligated to protect and promote these rights according to the law.
Acknowledging the positive steps taken by the state, such as ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, approving the National Policy for Inclusion and Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the National Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities, as well as providing the Social Disability Pension and implementing other positive measures by various entities to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities, Marilia da Costa also recognized that individuals with disabilities still face barriers and discrimination from the state, society, and even within their own families in certain circumstances. Therefore, efforts to protect and promote the rights of people with disabilities must persist.
The Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ) is an independent constitutional body mandated to safeguard human rights, enhance integrity, and promote good governance. Through activities such as receiving complaints, advocacy, promotion, monitoring, investigations, and recommendations, the PDHJ plays a crucial role in ensuring the protection of vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities.
On the National Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us unite in respecting, protecting, and fulfilling the human rights of people with disabilities in Timor-Leste.
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