Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Thirty-fourth session

Geneva, 9–27 March 2026

Consideration of reports submitted by States Parties under article 35 of the Convention

Replies of the Marshall Islands to the list of issues in relation to its initial report *

[Date received: 19 November 2025]

Introduction

1.The Republic of the Marshall Islands reaffirms its commitment to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and to the promotion and protection of the rights of all persons with disabilities. As a Small Island Developing State, the Marshall Islands faces distinct challenges shaped by geographic isolation, climate vulnerability, limited resources and capacity, and the enduring impacts of the nuclear legacy. These realities underscore the importance of embedding disability rights within national development and human rights frameworks.

2.The preparation of this report on the follow-up questions was guided by a participatory and inclusive approach. The Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs (MoCIA) coordinated the process in collaboration with the Human Rights Committee, Government ministries, civil society organizations, and organizations of persons with disabilities, including the Marshall Islands Disabled Persons Organization (MIDPO), a legally registered disability‑led non-profit organization.

3.The report highlights legislative reforms, institutional strengthening, and community‑driven initiatives undertaken since the adoption of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2015 (RPDA). It reflects progress in mainstreaming disability rights across education, health, employment, and governance, while acknowledging areas where further action is required.

4.The Marshall Islands recognizes the dynamic nature of disability rights challenges and the need for sustained dialogue, transparency, and partnership. The Government emphasizes the role of civil society and traditional leadership in shaping inclusive and culturally grounded progress.

5.This document stands as both a reflection of achievements and an acknowledgment of challenges. It reaffirms the Marshall Islands’ steadfast commitment to human dignity, equality, and justice, and its determination to ensure that persons with disabilities are included in all aspects of national life.

Replies to the list of issues (CRPD/C/MHL/Q/1)

A.Purpose and general obligations (Arts. 1–4)

Reply to paragraph 1

6.The MoCIA serves as the lead ministry for CRPD implementation. The Disability Coordination Office (DCO) under MoCIA coordinates activities at international, regional, national, and grassroots levels. Persons with disabilities are represented through the Marshall Islands Disabled Persons Organization (MIDPO), which participates in the Human Rights Committee. Accessibility measures include office facilities, transport, and radio outreach, ensuring participation from outer islands.

7.The Consequential Amendments Bill for CRPD harmonization with respect to 94 pieces of legislation in the Marshall Islands Revised Code, introduced in 2019, was not adopted by the Nitijeļā. MoCIA, MIDPO, and partners recognize the need to strengthen advocacy with parliamentary leaders to advance CRPD implementation.

8.Revision of the National Policy on Disability Inclusive Development (2014–2018) has been delayed due to limited funding and technical support. A CRPD consultant has been approved by SPC to support the update.

9.DCO collaborates closely with MIDPO. MIDPO engages in national meetings, public hearings, and advocacy efforts, including annual observances such as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Financial support has included COVID‑19 relief measures.

10.The Marshall Islands has ratified 10 human rights treaties and optional protocols, including the CRPD. At present, a Bill has been proposed to the Nitijelaforthe establishment of a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) where the complaint and investigation mechanism will be transferred from the Human Rights Committee to the NHRC.

B.Specific rights (Arts. 5–30)

Equality and non‑discrimination (Art. 5)

Reply to paragraph 2

11.The RPDA applies to both State and non‑State actors. It recognizes denial of reasonable accommodation as a form of discrimination and provides legal remedies and complaint mechanisms. It serves as the cornerstone of disability rights protection in the Marshall Islands. Disability‑inclusive services are embedded in health, housing, and education frameworks, including the Marshall Islands Public School System Act, 2013 which provides special education services for children with disabilities aged 5–21.

Women with disabilities (Art. 6)

Reply to paragraph 3

12.Measures to promote equality include the Gender Equality Act, 2019 (GEA) and the MIMRA Gender, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI/GEDI) Policy. Awareness‑raising campaigns and engagement with civil society organizations support inclusion. Women with disabilities are engaged through representative organizations in decision‑making, evaluation, and monitoring of laws and programs.

13.MIDPO has established a Women with Disabilities Committee, with significant representation of women on its board and membership. The DCO supports the committee with accessible transport for participation in national and international events. Women with disabilities regularly engage in national observances, including International Women’s Day and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Children with disabilities (Art. 7)

Reply to paragraphs 4 and 5

14.The Multisectoral Early Childhood Development (ECD) Program integrates non‑violent parenting education, child safeguarding training, and maternal and child services. Outreach extends to neighboring‑island communities. The Public School System institutionalized Social Citizenship Education in 2021, embedding human rights and inclusion in curricula. Student‑led clubs promote community outreach and awareness, including disability rights.

15.The Child Rights Act 2015 (CRCA) and the RPDA require accessible education and learning methods for all categories of disabilities. Inclusive education is promoted without discrimination or stigma.

Awareness‑raising (Art. 8)

Reply to paragraph 6

16.Awareness‑raising activities and campaignsare conducted nationwide, targeting families, communities, leaders, and service providers. Initiatives include:

•The Ministry of Education, Sports and Training (MOEST), through its Special Education Program, together with the DCO, Ministry of Health and Human Services (MOHHS), American Red Cross-RMI Chapter, and Women United Together Marshall Islands (WUTMI) conducts annual national and community-based campaigns promoting disability inclusion. These include observances of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (RMI Disability Awareness Week) and World Autism Awareness Day, which feature inclusive school and community events, radio and media messages, and public exhibitions highlighting the abilities, achievements, and rights of persons with disabilities.

•The Special Education Program under MOEST also consults students and parents with disabilities in the development of school awareness activities and anti-bullying campaigns.

•During PSS Education Week and RMI Disability Awareness Week, Special Education teachers, families, and students with disabilities actively participate at the community and school level. They actively participate in the school-based activities, presentations and school assemblies to promote empathy, respect, and teamwork, and awareness of the types and effects of disabilities.

•Special Education and Early Intervention teams, in coordination with local governments, regularly conduct program monitoring, outreach, and awareness activities on the outer atolls. These visits include community meetings, family consultations, and information sessions on disability rights, early identification, and inclusive education services. Local mayors, health assistants, and community leaders play a key role in disseminating information and supporting advocacy in remote areas.

•Training and capacity-building sessions have been conducted for teachers, health professionals, police officers, and community workers to strengthen their understanding of disability rights under the CRPD. These sessions include components on preventing bullying, discrimination, and the use of devaluing or derogatory language against persons with disabilities.

•Schools across the RMI implement anti-bullying campaigns and inclusive education programs that promote empathy, respect, and peer support among students. Awareness activities such as “Inclusive Education Week” reinforce positive social values and encourage a school culture of acceptance and participation for all learners, including those with disabilities.

Accessibility (Art. 9)

Reply to paragraph 7

General measures of implementation

17.The Marshall Islands implements measures to strengthen protections for children with disabilities. Ministries coordinate to improve early identification through school‑based screenings and community health outreach. The Public School System works with the Ministry of Health and Human Services to ensure children receive appropriate support, including referrals, assistive devices, and tailored learning strategies.

18.Implementation also includes accessibility standards through the National Building Code Act, 2025, which exceeds U.S. federal requirements. Schools and public facilities are being assessed for compliance, and pilot retrofitting projects are underway to demonstrate inclusive design. These measures ensure that children with disabilities benefit from safe and accessible environments.

19.Children with disabilities participate in school councils and youth programs. Teachers and facilitators create safe spaces for children to express their views, and their perspectives are taken into account in decisions affecting education and community life.

20.Participation mechanisms continue to expand so that children with disabilities are recognized as rights‑holders whose voices shape policy and practice. Their involvement in community and school decision‑making strengthens accountability and ensures that programs respond to their lived realities.

Situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies (Art. 11)

Reply to paragraph 8

21.The Disaster Risk Management Act, 2023 remains the primary legal framework guiding national responses to emergencies. Between 2021 and 2023, discussions focus on updating the Act to reflect contemporary needs, including explicit provisions for disability inclusion.

22.Government agencies begin reviewing disaster response protocols to ensure persons with disabilities are considered in planning and implementation. This process strengthens the legal foundation for inclusive disaster management.

23.Disability inclusion is integrated into disaster preparedness activities. Accessible shelters were piloted in Majuro and Ebeye, and evacuation drills included persons with disabilities to test readiness.

24.Collaboration with disability organizations helps identify barriers and propose solutions, such as communication in accessible formats and transport support during evacuations. These measures improve resilience and safety for vulnerable groups.

25.National climate change consultations in 2022 and 2023 include representatives of disability organizations. Their input shapes adaptation strategies, particularly around relocation planning and resilience measures for vulnerable communities.

26.This consultation ensures that persons with disabilities are active participants in climate policy discussions. Their perspectives strengthen national strategies by highlighting accessibility and inclusion needs.

27.During the COVID‑19 pandemic, targeted assistance is provided to households with persons with disabilities, including food distribution, hygiene kits, and financial support. These measures demonstrate the importance of disability‑inclusive humanitarian responses.

Equal recognition before the law (Art. 12)

Reply to paragraph 9

28.Equal protection and freedom from discrimination is guaranteed under Article II, Section 12, of the Constitution. To that end, the Marshall Islands continues to review, among others, the Marshall Islands Guardianship Act 1984 in light of the RPDA, the latter of which guarantees equal recognition before the law and affirms that persons with disabilities enjoy legal capacity on an equal basis with others. The Government acknowledges that the Marshall Islands Guardianship Act 1984 must be harmonized with these provisions to ensure that persons with disabilities are not deprived of their rights through substituted decision‑making.

Liberty and security of person (Art. 14)

Reply to paragraphs 11 to 13

29.Information on laws, policies, and practices under which persons with disabilities may be detained for compulsory care, treatment, or protection is limited. The Government acknowledges the need to review existing frameworks to ensure compliance with the CRPD.

30.Alignment with the RPDA is necessary to safeguard liberty and security. Data on the number of persons with disabilities in the prison population is not currently available. Oversight mechanisms to ensure adequate prison conditions, including accessibility and reasonable accommodation, are under review.

Freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment (Art. 15)

Reply to paragraphs 14 and 15

31.The Government acknowledges the need to examine practices such as physical, chemical, and mechanical restraints in family and community settings. Measures are being considered to protect persons with disabilities from harmful practices that may amount to torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. It should be noted that cruel and unusual punishment, including the death penalty, is prohibited under Article II, Section 6, of the Constitution.

Freedom from exploitation, violence and abuse (Art. 16)

Reply to paragraphs 16 and 17

32.Prevention measures under the National Policy on Disability Inclusive Development aim to prevent exploitation, violence, and abuse, particularly against women and children with disabilities. Assistance includes information and education for families and caregivers on how to avoid, recognize, and report abuse.

33.TheDomestic Violence Prevention and Protection Act, 2011provides legal protection for persons with disabilities experiencing domestic violence. Provisions in the CRCA prohibits exploitation of children while the GEA ensures that women and girls with disabilities enjoy gender equality and non-discrimination on an equal basis with other women and girls. Specific measures include awareness campaigns and support services implemented by the WUTMI.

34.Steps are being taken to establish formal support systems to identify, investigate, and prosecute exploitation, violence, and abuse against persons with disabilities. Information on complaints, investigations, and sanctions is limited, but the government acknowledges the importance of strengthening these mechanisms.

35.Protocols and inter‑agency agreements are under consideration to ensure reliable systems for prevention, reporting, and monitoring of violence against persons with disabilities.

36.Women with disabilities are included in the WUTMI program focused on violence against women. MIDPO women’s committee leaders participate in national observances such as the 16 Days of Activism and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, ensuring visibility and advocacy. WUTMI also conducts weekly radio programs to deliver educational information on stopping violence against women and girls, reaching women with disabilities across the islands.

Protecting the integrity of the person (Art. 17)

Reply to paragraphs 18 and 19

37.Information on laws, policies, and practices allowing mental health treatment or medical interventions without free and informed consent is limited. The Government acknowledges the need to review health frameworks to ensure compliance with CRPD standards.

38.Clarification is required on whether interventions such as sterilization, contraception, and abortion may be permitted solely on the basis of consent from guardians, physicians, or family members. The Government recognizes the importance of safeguarding autonomy and ensuring that persons with disabilities can make decisions about their own health.

Liberty of movement and nationality (Art. 18)

Reply to paragraph 20

39.Steps are being taken to improve registration processes for children with disabilities, including those living on outer islands and atolls. Efforts are aimed at ensuring that children with disabilities are properly documented and can access services and entitlements.

40.A task force has been established to examine civil and vital registration practices. Outcomes of this work are pending, but the government acknowledges the importance of accurate registration to secure rights to nationality and access to services.

41.The DCO, in collaboration with MIDPO, made significant progress in promoting disability inclusion, empowerment, and accessibility across the Marshall Islands. Key achievements include the facilitation of inclusive voter education and accessible referendum processes from March to April 2025. These efforts reached over 200 confined voters with disabilities – particularly those with mobility, vision, or cognitive impairments – ensuring their understanding of the referendum and enabling informed participation in the democratic process. A dedicated session for the Deaf community, complete with sign language interpretation, further strengthened equitable access.

42.MIDPO also celebrated the launch of a new accessibility bus funded by the ADB’s Covid-19 Assistance Fund, which is providing reliable transport for persons with disabilities to essential services and community events, reducing isolation and enhancing dignity.

Living independently and being included in the community (Art. 19)

Reply to paragraph 21

43.The RPDA provides the legal foundation for independent living. The DCO and MIDPO collaborate with partners to provide assistive equipment, dignity kits, food supplies, and accessible transportation.

44.Community‑based support networks are prioritized to avoid institutionalization. Initiatives include donations of wheelchairs and gardening tools, distribution of dignity kits for women and girls with disabilities, and food assistance to households. Financial assistance was provided during the COVID‑19 pandemic, specifically including persons with disabilities. For more than ten years, the MIDPO and DCO have provided accessible transportation for persons with disabilities to attend appointments.

45.These measures strengthen family and community networks, ensuring that persons with disabilities can live independently and be included in society.

Personal mobility (Art. 20)

Reply to paragraph 22

46.The Disability Assistance Fund receives less than $30,000 annually from the general budget. The Government acknowledges the need for sustainable financing to ensure reliable support for persons with disabilities.

47.Strategies are being developed to support local production and distribution of mobility aids, devices, and assistive technologies. These measures aim to ensure personal mobility with the greatest possible independence, at the time and manner of choice, and at affordable cost.

48.Training programs in mobility skills for persons with disabilities and specialist staff are under consideration. These initiatives are intended to strengthen independence and ensure that persons with disabilities can exercise their right to mobility effectively.

Freedom of expression and opinion, and access to information (Art. 21)

Reply to paragraph 23

49.Persons with disabilities are guaranteed the right to freedom of thought, speech, and opinion under Article II, Section 1, of the Constitution. MIDPO leaders and members participate in public hearings, electoral surveys, and national consultations. They also contribute to community events, radio broadcasts, and workshops, ensuring their voices are heard.

50.Challenges remain in providing information in accessible formats such as braille, sign language, and spoken information on television. The Government acknowledges these gaps and continues to collaborate with organizations of persons with disabilities to improve communication accessibility.

51.The Government recognizes the importance of consulting the deaf community in the process of formally recognizing its preferred sign language as an official language. Engagement with representative organizations is ongoing.

Respect for privacy (Art. 22)

Reply to paragraph 24

52.Personal autonomy and privacy are guaranteed under Article II, Section 13, of the Constitution. Information on measures to promote and protect the right to privacy of persons with disabilities is limited. The Government acknowledges the need to operationalize section 1114 of the RPDA to ensure privacy in all settings, impose penalties, and provide remedies for violations.

Respect for home and the family (Art. 23)

Reply to paragraph25

53.The Government continues to review the National Reproductive Health Policy and Strategy to ensure inclusion of gender‑ and age‑appropriate measures for persons with disabilities. In 2023, early consultations were undertaken with civil society, youth groups, and international partners to identify gaps and priorities for the updated policy. The Marshall Islands also participated in the WHO global survey on sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (SRMNCAH) policies, which provided evidence on national strengths and areas requiring alignment with international standards. Youth‑focused initiatives, including testimonies compiled through the UNFPA Youth Champions Project, highlighted the importance of adolescent health and disability inclusion in shaping the new policy direction. These 2023 efforts laid the foundation for ensuring reproductive health services are accessible, rights‑based, and responsive to the needs of all, including persons with disabilities and families across neighboring islands.

Education (Art. 24)

Reply to paragraphs 26 and 27

54.The Government recognizes the people’s right to education under Article II, Section 15, of the Constitution. Education funding continues to rely on external agreements, particularly with the United States. Between 2021 and 2023, resources are directed toward strengthening inclusive education, with emphasis on ensuring children with disabilities benefit from these agreements. Assistive devices, teacher training, and classroom adjustments are supported through these funds.

55.Implementation focuses on aligning external support with national priorities. Ministries ensure that funding agreements contribute to inclusive education goals, so children with disabilities have equal opportunities to access quality learning environments.

56.Data collection, which is required under Section 1138 of the RPDA, systems are being strengthened to track children with disabilities in higher education. The Economic Policy, Planning and Statistics Office (EPPSO) works with schools and colleges to improve disaggregation of statistics, ensuring that disability status is recorded and monitored.

57.This effort supports evidence‑based planning. By maintaining a clearer database, the Government can identify gaps in access and design targeted interventions to support students with disabilities in post‑secondary education.

58.The Youth Service Corps Act 2016 was adopted by the Nitijela. Its Mission is “to promote and secure a future in which a year of service is a cultural expectation, common opportunity to improve oneself and his/her environment and a civic right of passage for all…youth”. Moreover, youth programs expand vocational training and leadership opportunities between 2021 and 2023. Specific outreach ensures that young persons with disabilities are included in these initiatives.

59.These projects build confidence and skills, preparing young people with disabilities for employment and community leadership. Capacity‑building strengthens their role as active contributors to national development.

Health (Art. 25)

Reply to paragraph 28

60.The Government recognizes the people’s right to health under Article II, Section 15, of the Constitution. The Ministry of Health and Human Services provides disability‑inclusive health services, including rehabilitation, maternal and child health, and mental health programs. Outreach extends to neighboring islands, ensuring equitable access.

61.In 2023, the visit of the UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons highlighted displacement and health vulnerabilities linked to the nuclear legacy, including impacts on women and girls. These efforts, alongside national training on gender sensitivity and nuclear justice education in schools, demonstrate RMI’s commitment to ensuring inclusive health responses that take into account the sexual and reproductive health needs of women and girls with disabilities.

62.Health services continue to monitor and respond to the long‑term impacts of nuclear testing. Between 2021 and 2023, medical support is provided to affected communities, including persons with disabilities.

63.These measures ensure ongoing care and highlight the government’s commitment to addressing historical harms. Monitoring programs remain central to protecting health and wellbeing.

64.Mental health services expand through community‑based initiatives. Local health workers are trained to identify needs and provide referrals, while mental health is integrated into primary care.

65.These efforts make support more accessible, particularly in outer islands. Community‑based approaches ensure persons with disabilities receive care close to home.

Habilitation and rehabilitation (Art. 26)

Reply to paragraph 29

66.The Marshall Islands acknowledges the lack of allied health‑care professionals and the need to strengthen rehabilitation services. The Ministry of Health and Human Services provides rehabilitation through existing programs, including physical therapy and maternal and child health services. Partnerships with organizations of persons with disabilities such as MIDPO, MISPA, and DFA have supported outreach and awareness campaigns, while donations of mobility equipment have enhanced rehabilitation capacity. The government recognizes the importance of developing the skills of rehabilitation staff and is considering strategies to build capacity and ensure that services are accessible across all islands.

Work and employment (Art. 27)

Reply to paragraph 30

67.The Public Service Commission continues to review data‑collection methods to obtain disaggregated employment data on persons with disabilities. Information on outcomes remains limited, but the Government acknowledges the importance of accurate data to inform policy. Employment‑related projects, including the Kora im An Kil Fund, have been implemented with efforts to ensure that young people with disabilities and women with disabilities benefit. Collaboration with civil society organizations supports advocacy for workplace inclusion, while training programs aim to expand opportunities in both public and private sectors.

Adequate standard of living and social protection (Art. 28)

Reply to paragraph 31

68.The Marshall Islands recognizes that the lack of a formal mechanism to identify persons with disabilities may affect eligibility for entitlements under the Senior Citizens Act, 2018, Social Security Act of 1990 and RMI Social Support Scheme Act, 2023. Measures are being taken to support persons with disabilities who are ineligible for disability benefits. The DCO and MIDPO collaborate with partners to provide essential goods, services, and financial assistance. Initiatives include distribution of food supplies, dignity kits, and gardening tools, as well as financial support during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Accessible transportation is provided for persons with disabilities to attend appointments, ensuring equitable access to services and community participation.

Participation in cultural life, recreation, leisure and sport (Art. 30)

Reply to paragraph 32

69.The Marshall Islands promotes inclusion of children with disabilities in cultural, sporting, and summer events. MIDPO members participate in national observances such as International Women’s Day, cultural celebrations, and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Accessible transport and community‑based outreach enable participation in events across the islands. Partnerships with civil society organizations ensure that persons with disabilities are represented in cultural, recreational, and sporting activities, reinforcing their right to full inclusion in society.

C.Specific obligations (Articles 31–33)

Statistics and data collection (Art. 31)

Reply to paragraph 33

70.The Marshall Islands recognizes the importance of disaggregated data to inform policy development. Plans for the Household Income and Expenditure Survey and the National Census include collecting data on persons with disabilities. Dissemination of results to government ministries and organizations of persons with disabilities is a priority to ensure inclusive planning.

71.Building on its endorsement of the Pacific Principles of Practices for NMIRFs in 2020, RMI has collaborated with OHCHR and SPC to strengthen institutional capacity for monitoring and reporting. In 2023, work began on developing a customized tracking tool to collect and monitor recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review, treaty bodies, and special procedures, including those relating to persons with disabilities.

72.Measures are being taken to improve the collection and dissemination of disaggregated data. The government acknowledges the need for accurate statistics to ensure appropriate and relevant policy development, implementation, and evaluation. Collaboration with partners supports capacity‑building in data management.

International cooperation (Art. 32)

Reply to paragraph 34

73.The Marshall Islands emphasizes that all partnerships and programs with donors and development organizations must be disability‑inclusive and aligned with CRPD standards. International cooperation has supported legislative reform, treaty readiness assessments, and institutional strengthening.

74.Organizations of persons with disabilities are closely consulted and actively involved in the development of program and regional strategies. MIDPO participates in consultations with UN agencies, SPC, and regional NGOs, ensuring that disability perspectives are integrated into national and regional development frameworks.

National implementation and monitoring (Art. 33)

Reply to paragraph 35

75.The Government acknowledges the importance of budgetary allocations to support independent monitoring of CRPD implementation. Technical assistance from the Pacific Community, Asia and Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights have contributed to capacity‑building for the Human Rights Committee and supported feasibility studies for a National Human Rights Institution. These studies have led to the introduction of the Bill to enact the Human Rights Commission Act in Nitijela before it went into recess for this year. In addition, EPPSO has utilized the Washington Group Questionnaire to collect data on persons with disabilities, strengthening evidence‑based planning and ensuring that disability rights are reflected in monitoring and reporting processes. These combined efforts reinforce RMI’s commitment to advancing inclusive governance and accountability for the rights of persons with disabilities.

D.Conclusion

76.The Marshall Islands has made significant progress in implementing the CRPD. Achievements include adoption of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2015, Child Rights Protection Act 2015 and the Gender Equality Act, 2019, amongst others. The Nitijela’s recent adoption of the National Building Code Act 2025 now standardizes accessibility for all buildings. . Other strides include the introduction of inclusive education programs and community‑based support networks. Organizations of persons with disabilities, particularly MIDPO, play a central role in advocacy, consultation, and program design.

77.Challenges remain in legislative harmonization, sustainable financing, and capacity constraints. The government acknowledges the need to strengthen data collection, expand rehabilitation services, and ensure accessibility across all islands.

78.The Marshall Islands reaffirms its commitment to advancing disability rights and welcomes continued cooperation with international partners to ensure full compliance with the Convention and the realization of rights for all persons with disabilities.