This policy is the product of collaboration between the Department of Health and Social Affairs, the Department of Education, NGOs, international organizations, the state governments, and a wide range of community groups and stakeholders.
The policy was first submitted as a resolution to the 15th Congress, but there wasn’t enough time to take any action on it.
It was resubmitted to the 16th Congress as instructed by Sen. Joseph Urusemal, the then-chairman of the Committee on Health and Social Affairs.
The aim of this policy is to identify priority areas for action to promote societal awareness and create a rights-based society for persons with disabilities.
The Department of Health and Social Affairs said it chose to submit a policy first instead of legislation.
It added, “Disability legislation has to be comprehensive, meaning it would have components of enforcement schemes that would compel and require funding and coordination with stakeholders. With this policy in place, FSM will have not only a guiding mechanism, but also an instrument to generate regional and international support.”
In the meantime, the department said will work closely with the Department of Justice and other stakeholders to develop practical and comprehensive legislation.
