20th of April marks 37th Day of Persons with Disabilities. We celebrate this day every year, but this year, it is even more meaningful as this year marks 10th anniversary of enactment of the Anti-Disability Discrimination Act. NHRCK feels greater responsibility as an institution that rectifies and provides remedy for discrimination against persons with disabilities.
We have witnessed improvement of people’s perception on people with disabilities since the enactment of the Anti-Disability Discrimination Act and progress are made for promotion of human rights of people with disabilities including enactment of diverse legislations for protection and promotion of their human rights.
\However, there still exist people who consider people with disabilities as subject to provide welfare or subject of hatred and danger. Persons with disabilities are equally entitled with every human right and basic freedom. However, they are often exploited and not provided with equal treatment in their daily lives including employment, education, transportation, access to information and information-communication devices, finance, health care and tourism. There are internet channels which publicly denounce or express hatred against people with disabilities.
Meanwhile, some health care workers argued that when the amended Mental Health Act enters into force on May 30, it would release 19 thousands patients from mental hospitals at once and result in social issues. NHRCK expressed its grave concern that such argument would foster prejudice and hatred against people with mental illness.
NHRCK is currently working on devising measures to enhance existing Act on the Discrimination Against People with Disabilities to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities and provide remedy in an effective manner. NHRCK will gather opinion from related individuals and organizations and announce police recommendations.
In addition, NHRCK urged the National Election Committee to provide convenience for persons with disabilities to practically ensure their right to vote.
Lastly, NHRCK will continue to make its utmost efforts to create a world where people with disabilities are equally treated; and where people with disabilities and no-disabilities are living together. We sincerely hope that Korean people join our efforts to create a better world for people with disabilities.
