In Liberia, a crisis festers quietly, hidden beneath the surface of everyday life yet loud in its implications: the plight of persons with disabilities. Despite the existence of international protocols and national laws designed to protect their rights, a pervasive lack of political will has left many disabled individuals vulnerable to abuse and discrimination. The voices of these individuals have become echoes in a society that has turned its back on them, leaving them to navigate a world fraught with challenges and injustices alone.
By: Dakpannah U-Thant Nicholas [email protected]
The frustrations voiced by individuals with disabilities are profound. They express a palpable sense of abandonment by a government that is meant to be their refuge. “The government, who we should run to when people take advantage of us, has totally forgotten about us,” one advocate lamented. This abandonment has left many feeling invisible, as their needs and rights are disregarded in the corridors of power. The continual neglect not only exacerbates their suffering but reinforces a cycle of marginalization that is difficult to break.
For many women with disabilities, the situation is even more dire. They are often subjected to violence and abuse, becoming victims of sexual molestation in their own communities. The fear of violence looms large, and the consequences are devastating—ranging from unwanted pregnancies to severe health issues. “We are very vulnerable,” they say, underscoring a tragic reality that is often overlooked. Their experiences highlight a critical intersection of gender and disability, where societal neglect compounds their suffering.
Living in abject poverty is another harsh reality faced by persons with disabilities in Liberia. This poverty is not merely a consequence of economic circumstances, but a direct result of systemic exclusion. They are denied fundamental rights—access to quality education, job opportunities, and affordable healthcare. Public transportation and facilities remain largely inaccessible, making daily life an exhausting struggle. “Absolutely nothing I can point to that is working for us,” one individual lamented, reflecting the frustration of many who are left to fend for themselves in a society that has largely ignored their needs.
The urgent call for action from the disabled community is clear: they demand recognition, inclusion, and respect. They implore policymakers and society at large to rethink their actions and the impact of their decisions on the lives of disabled individuals. The path forward requires a collective commitment to dismantling the barriers that perpetuate inequality and to creating an environment where persons with disabilities can thrive.
Implementing existing laws and international protocols is not just a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative. When the rights of persons with disabilities are acknowledged and upheld, it is not only a victory for them but a win for society as a whole. It is an opportunity to build a more inclusive Liberia—one where every individual, regardless of ability, can contribute to and benefit from the nation’s progress.
The time has come for action. It is essential for those in positions of power to listen to the voices of persons with disabilities and to work collaboratively towards solutions that prioritize their rights and well-being. By fostering an inclusive society, we can pave the way for a brighter future—one that acknowledges the dignity and potential of every citizen. Only then can we hope to heal the deep wounds of neglect and build a Liberia where everyone is valued and empowered.
