The National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) in Liberia has expressed profound disappointment over President Joseph Boakai’s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), citing the complete omission of any mention of the disabled community and their concerns. This exclusion, according to NUOD President Peter Flomo, signifies a disregard for a substantial segment of the Liberian population and their ongoing struggle for inclusion and equitable treatment. The Union’s disappointment stems not only from the lack of acknowledgement but also from the perceived missed opportunity to address critical issues affecting disabled individuals and to outline a roadmap towards their integration and empowerment within Liberian society. The President’s silence on the matter, they argue, effectively renders the disabled community invisible in the national discourse, perpetuating their marginalization and hindering their progress towards full participation in the nation’s development.
The core of the NUOD’s grievance lies in the President’s failure to acknowledge the pressing need for the inclusion of disability-related provisions in the national budget. This omission, according to Flomo, signals a lack of commitment from the government to address the myriad challenges faced by disabled individuals, ranging from access to healthcare and education to economic opportunities and social protection. The Union emphasizes that budgetary allocation is crucial for implementing programs and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of disabled individuals and ensuring their equal access to fundamental rights and services. Without dedicated resources allocated specifically for disability-related needs, the community remains vulnerable and excluded from the benefits of national development.
Beyond the budgetary concerns, the NUOD also expressed apprehension about the broader political climate and the functioning of government institutions. Flomo highlighted the recent leadership crisis within the House of Representatives and the noticeable absence of the Supreme Court bench during the President’s address as indicators of potential instability and dysfunction within the government. These observations, coupled with the President’s silence on disability issues, raise concerns about the government’s capacity to effectively address the multifaceted challenges faced by the nation, including the specific needs of the disabled community. The Union argues that a stable and well-functioning government is essential for creating an inclusive environment where the rights and needs of all citizens, including those with disabilities, are respected and protected.
In response to the perceived neglect and ongoing challenges, the NUOD has put forth a series of recommendations aimed at promoting the inclusion and empowerment of disabled individuals in Liberia. Central to these recommendations is the call for the appointment of disability advisors and sign language interpreters within government institutions. This measure is intended to ensure that the voices and perspectives of disabled individuals are heard and considered in policymaking processes, promoting greater representation and responsiveness to their specific needs. Furthermore, the Union advocates for the representation of persons with disabilities at all levels of public service, fostering a more inclusive and representative government that reflects the diversity of the Liberian population.
The NUOD also proposes the establishment of a dedicated directorate within the Ministry of Education’s Department of Special and Inclusive Education, specifically focused on addressing the needs of deaf, physically challenged, and visually impaired individuals. This directorate would play a crucial role in developing and implementing targeted programs and interventions designed to improve access to quality education and support services for these specific communities. The Union believes that such a dedicated structure is essential for ensuring that the unique educational needs of these individuals are met, enabling them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Finally, the NUOD emphasizes the importance of employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in all public institutions. The Union argues that gainful employment is crucial for economic empowerment and social inclusion, enabling disabled individuals to achieve financial independence and participate fully in the workforce. The NUOD urges President Boakai to prioritize these recommendations and demonstrate a genuine commitment to improving the living standards and overall well-being of individuals with disabilities in Liberia. By implementing these proposals, the government can create a more inclusive and equitable society where all citizens have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
