Dr. Al Blushi hails great potentials of the disabled

Bahrain joined the world in celebrating the World Disability Day. Human Rights and Social Development Minister and Acting Health Minister Dr. Fatima Al Blushi lauded the tremendous care accorded by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to people with special needs.She said "Bahrain is one of the first countries which signed the international Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2007." She also pointed out the recent law number 22 for 2011 which was ratified by HM the King in this regard."The Kingdom joined 7 basic human rights agreements out of 9, the latest of which was submission of the ratification document of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to the UN," she said."The aim is to fast-track national initiatives and schemes to further integrate people with special needs in the Bahraini society.""Bahrain joins the international community in celebrating the World Disability Day which falls on December 3 of each year," Dr. Al Blushi said pointing out that this year's theme is in harmony with the Human Rights and Social Development Ministry's plans for the next phase to boost and protect the rights of the disabled."The ministry is working on promoting the principle of integration in the Bahraini society so as to enable people with special needs to exercise their rights naturally and on equal footing."Dr. Al Blushi brought under the spotlight the kingdom's National Disability Strategy which was launched last October pointing out its key role in anchoring the culture of justice and equality among all people."The strategy is a historic step for Bahrain's future involving active and full participation of people with disabilities," she said adding that carrying out this ambitious scheme would require a strong political will and close follow-up.She also pointed out that the disabled account for 0.6% of the whole population in Bahrain according to 2010 census. This low rate has remained stable for the past three years according to official reports.Nevertheless, the government is doing its utmost to provide this category with the needed care and protect their rights as they are considered essential partners in building the nation thanks to the great potentials they enjoy, the minister emphasized.