AWWDI Pushes For Inclusive Policies To Foster Equality

The Advocacy for Women With Disabilities Initiative, AWWDI has called for a global shift towards inclusive policies, practices and attitudes that foster dignity, respect as well as equality for all women with disabilities.

They also called on government at all levels to take proactive measures aimed at ensuring that women with disabilities are self empowered and able to live free from all forms of violence.

The FCT Coordinator of AWWDI, Monsurat Fasasi, made the call at a media conference in Abuja.

While highlighting some of the challenges faced by their members, she emphasized the need for inclusive legislation by government aimed at enforcing laws that address the intersectionality of gender and disability, ensuring that women with disabilities are protected from violence and have access to legal recourse.

“Women with disabilities face a range of challenges that place them at increased risk of violence and marginalization. These challenges include:
Physical and Environmental Barriers: Inaccessible public spaces, transportation system, and healthcare services which prevent women with disabilities from fully participating in the society, limiting their ability to seek support when needed, social isolation:, stigma and discrimination.”

Also speaking, a member of AWWDI, Tosin Odumosu, said the Initiative is advocating for a world where women with disabilities are not just included but are recognized as equal participants in the society, with full access to services, protection, and opportunities.

She stressed that the global campaign holds significance for women with disabilities, who are at an increased risk of experiencing violence, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.

Some other members, Jamila Abdullahi, and Juilet Orji who narrated their ordeals stressed the need to create an inclusive and supportive environment, where gender based violence is eradicated and women with disabilities can thrive without fear of discrimination.

They were also of the opinion that Public services, including healthcare, the justice system, and social support, must be fully accessible and disability-friendly, enabling women with disabilities to seek help without facing additional barriers.

They also stressed the need for Communities to establish support networks that include trained professionals capable of addressing the unique needs of women with disabilities, which includes legal aid, emotional support, and protection services.”

As the 2024 16 days activism and international Day of Persons with Disabilities has come and gone, AWWDI reiterates commitment towards continuing the fight everyday of the year for the rights, safety and dignity of women with disabilities.

Nkiruka Okeke, Edited By Grace Namiji