Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Thirty-third session
Geneva, 11–29 August 2025
Consideration of reports submitted by parties to the Convention under article 35
Replies of Kiribati to the list of issues in relation to its initial report *
[Date received: 5 December 2024]
I.Purpose and general Obligations (Articles 1–4)
Reply to paragraph 1 of the list of issues (CRPD/C/KIR/Q/1)
1.There is existing mechanism that works closely with people with disabilities through consultation on matters of disability related policies. This include the Kiribati National Disability Policy and Action Plan in seeking people’s views and opinions at national level regarding the proposed Disability Inclusion Act which is still under discussion. Also, the Women Development Division had involved the Disability Inclusion Division in its programs and activities on the review of policy and act related to women development in which women and girls with disabilities are included. People with disabilities are actively involved in legislative and policy decision-making processes through their representatives to national committees that related to the promotion and protection of human rights.
Reply to paragraph 1 (b) of the list of issues
2.CRPD compliance review has been undertaken through partnership between UNDP (Pacific Headquater, Suva, Fiji) including Ministries such as Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration and Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. The UNESCAP is organizing a revisitation of this review with the additional goal of establishing a Disability Inclusion Act and systematic CRPD compliance of targeted legislative pieces.
Reply to paragraph 1 (c) of the list of issues
3.Under the financial support of the Australian High Commission (DFAT), and end of term assessment of the implementation of the Kiribati National Disability Policy & Action Plan 2018–2021 was done in late 2022. This included the revised version of the policy that extended from 2023–2026. A mid-term review of the latest policy is expected to be conducted in 2024–2025. Note that this policy has been submitted to Cabinet and awaiting review and approval.
Reply to paragraph 1 (d) of the list of issues
4.Currently, all MWYSSA divisions mainstream the Disability Division into their activity including the coverage of financial expenses such as catering, transport, allowance and DSA. Additionally, disability accessibility & inclusion in Kiribati is gaining increased recognition resulting in increased disability involvements in donor projects and Ministry activities. In addition to the DID’s current core activities and partners obligations, there is a need for additional staffing to meet objectives.
Reply to paragraph 1 (e) of the list of issues
5.The Disability Division is promoting and encouraging the accessibility to people with special needs in terms of using Kiri sign language and interpreters so that people with disabilities would be able to involve in the conversation. There is a plan in the final draft of the Kiribati National Disability Policy and Action Plan 2023–2026 to improve accessibility to information and communication for persons with visual and auditory impairments through recognition of the Kiribati sign Language as an official language and through the use of sign language interpreters. Currently, the MWYSSA continues to promote with its partners inclusion of the deaf communities in their programs and procedures to access Kiri Sign Language interpreters.
Reply to paragraph 1 (f) of the list of issues
6.Ministry of Justice with the Kiribati National Human Rights Taskforce will determine the expected ratification prior the next review of the CRPD by the committee, it could take three to four years for full ratification of the protocol. It could also be less than two years as it depends to the priority of the Government and since CRPD is one of the top priorities of the Government of the Day, it will be hopefully ratified earlier than two years. Since there are no obstacles in ratifying the CRPD Protocols, however, the human resources and financial support is also one of the challenges under this commitment, thus the GOK is taking a gradual step ratifying each Human Rights conventions and protocols according to the allocated financial supports from the GOK.
II.Specific Rights (Articles 5–30)
Article 5
Equality and non-discrimination
Reply to paragraph 2 (a) of the list of issues
7.The first CRPD compliance review was undertaken in late 2021 with the draft report submitted in March 2022 under the program of the UNDP Pacific HQ, Suva, Fiji. There is an ongoing discussion being undertaken with the UNDP contact point to revisit the initial report, establish a stand-alone disability Act, and mainstream CRPD into non-compliant legislative pieces. This is estimated to commence in August 2023. Part of the program is to establish a disability stand-alone disability Act, and mainstream CRPD into non-compliant legislative pieces. This is estimated to commence in August 2023. Part of the program is to establish a disability stand-alone Act and the incremental mainstreaming of the CRPD into non-compliant legislations. The UNDP has been a key partner in promoting this need to regional UN agencies and regional partners.
Reply to paragraph 2 (b) of the list of issues
8.Again, ongoing discussion is being undertaken with UNDP contact point to establish a stand-alone disability Act, and mainstream CRPD into non-compliant legislative pieces.
Reply to paragraph 2 (c) of the list of issues
9.First review and amendment for the Kiribati Disability Support Allowance has been done and most people with special needs are included. However, hearing disorders and speech impairment and those who are employed are still not included. There is a hope in a second review that everyone will be included in the KDSA.
Article 6
Women with Disabilities
Reply to paragraph 3 (a) of the list of issues
10.Gender Equality and Women Development Policy is for everyone protected under the Policy regardless of their disability. This is including the ESGBV that people with disability are protected under this policy. For Police Gender Based Violence Standing Order 2019 is regarded as training Manual which also including trainings to people with disabilities.
Reply to paragraph 3 (b) of the list of issues
11.Women with Disabilities at Te Toa Matoa are engaging with Women Development Division, AMAKA with the support of DID for gender issues, monitoring programs related to Gender Equality. At the moment there is still yet a program on that, however there is a continue work in promoting Women with Disabilities Association to be included in other government parties and NGOs. The Women Development Division is committed in providing economic empowerment programs to women with disabilities so that they could be able to be part of their community through their skills on sewing, agriculture, cooking and many more.
Reply to paragraph 3 (c) of the list of issues
12.Measures taken to address the challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities related to their sexual and reproductive health rights, menstrual health and hygiene related needs, as well as information on specific programs and policies for women and girls with disabilities.
13.MWYSSA run a program on Sexual Reproduction Health Training at outer island. It is a new program being initiated by the Ministry. They have visited 3 islands and still wait for more funds to run to the remaining island. It is a program that carried out in response to a finding that early pregnancy mostly happened to girls with special needs compared to normal girls. The existing Kiribati Men Behavioral Change Program initiated to empower the family health for women and children on sexual reproductive health right. More importantly is to train men on Behavioral Change Program since Men dominant attitude is very common. RMNCAH
14.Reproductive Maternal Neonatal Care Adolescent Health. Its ongoing program that run by MHMS Inclusive program
Article 7
Children with disabilities
Reply to paragraph 4 (a) of the list of issues
15.All children with special needs are included in Kiribati Disability Support Allowance as a coverage for basic living needs which contributes to the reduction of poverty and enjoyment of their rights. Disability Inclusion Division is continuing to do radio awareness through (50 program) aiming to convince Parents on their roles and responsibility to protect and promote their children’s rights especially to children with special needs.
Reply to paragraph 4 (b) of the list of issues
16.The Children with disabilities in the State party, as well as data and statistics disaggregated by age, education, geographic, economic, and social status:
Children’s Rights is paramount in our legislations, whereby the GOK provides all these services through the National Statistics Office and disaggregated data by age and education level.
Reply to paragraph 4 (c) of the list of issues
17.Measures taken to establish specific mechanisms and channels for children with disabilities for expressing their views on all matters affecting them, and to ensure that their views are taken into consideration.
18.Disability in Kiribati have greater benefits then those who are not disable as they double receive the Government support grants and their views are also considered by the GOK through their consultant and centred for disability.
Article 8
Awareness-raising
Reply to paragraph 5 (a) of the list of issues
19.Human Right Advocacy normally conducted in the Outer islands. Furthermore, program for equal education opportunities were also given to Household by visiting Disabilities by Rehab and Meria Ward (MHMS), WEEKLY BASIS (3 TIMES A WEEK). Disability Support Fund also serve as an extra ordinary fund whereby they also receive other benefits from the other shares beside disability support fund. The curriculum for disability is also included in the Government schools and other faiths schools.
Reply to paragraph 5 (b) of the list of issues
20.MWYSSA in collaboration with the Island council Staff (mayor, councilor, government and local civilian, Medical Assistance, Fisheries Island representatives, Church leaders, village reps and people with special needs and caretakers on the Disability Rights Awareness. The program on National Event and Outer Islands School at primary level is still on-going. DID with SafeNet and KMBC (National Event and Outer Islands, Schools (primary level). MHMS – Change of terminology with respect with PWD including their place of guardians.
Reply to paragraph 5 (c) of the list of issues
21.Person with special needs representation is well recognized, supported, and respected by people. Even though they are respected and recognized, stigma and discrimination do exist in some areas. Therefore, the Disability Inclusion Division is working closely with NGOs and i to ensure that stigma and discrimination is not happening to persons with special needs. The Education Level, children with disabilities have been given the opportunity to do further studies in order to complete tertiary education. This is currently systematized through the Disability Scholarship award program:
MOE AND KIT: Disabilities scholarship award.
Article 9
Accessibility
Reply to paragraph 6 of the list of issues
22.There are some islands are considered the accessibility building and facilities to people with special needs in their island. For example, one of the churches in Onotoa (in the Southern part of Kiribati) has built accessible entrance for person with disabilities.
23.People with special needs can access information and use sound and images for those who have hearing disorders and speech impairment. Work with MISE (architect on Accessibility audit – survey on the accessibility working place to make sure it supports working place accessibility. For example: work with building codes for people with disability needs. The Kiribati Building Code 2012 is under review now and will be submitted to cabinet for approval. Access for people with Disabilities must have the facility to gain reasonable access to buildings so that they are not at any material disadvantage when compared to normal people. This is all reflected in sections of the Kiribati Building Code 2012.
Article 11
Situation of risk and humanitarian emergency
Reply to paragraph 7 (a) of the list of issues
24.The specific measures undertaken by the KNEG through the risk management, where during the disaster disability are provided with safety gears if it is flooded and foods supplies with housing aids.
Reply to paragraph 7 (b) of the list of issues
25.The KNEG during the emergency disaster, where disability is the top priority of the Government to cover them with all required devices for their safety and also their shelter if destroy by the any kind of disaster that may struck our country such as Tsunami, strong winds with sea level rise.
Reply to paragraph 7 (c) of the list of issues
26.Te Toa Matoa, which is an NGO, is also involved in the KIEP and KAP, where they normally voiced their rights as well and capacity training for their members usually conducted by the KNEG members and Policy making for the KIEP is also part of the consultation in order for their needs to be catered in the Policy making.
Article 12
Equal recognition as a person before the law
Reply to paragraph 8 (a) of the list of issues
27.As part of the State commitment in protecting and promoting persons with disabilities through economic empowerment to Te Toamatoa so they can establish their business, maintain financial independence as well as inherit property. The program run is focusing on Joinery and Carpentry for both genders, sewing to women only, massage training for visually impaired only and agriculture. They also did the workshop on how to start their own business so they can become entrepreneurs in the future.
NSO: This can be captured in the last Census report 2020 and the last HIES report 2019
Reply to paragraph 8 (b) of the list of issues
28.People with special needs have been involved in the International Women’s Day and 16 days of activism campaign for promoting the rights for all people. There are awareness program which has been implemented during that celebration as the strategic way to fill in gaps of activities that are not yet implemented.
29.OPLS and private lawyers also providing legal supports to people with disabilities in order to be able to access to justice In-house Counsellor’s within Ministries for PWD.
30.Pro-bono Services for PWD by Private lawyers and People’s Lawyers Office for legal representation in courts for seeking remedies for Justice in whatever circumstances they faced that related to abuse and legal rights for properties etc.
Article 13
Access to Justice
Reply to paragraph 9 of the list of issues
31.The monitoring process is still on going through the accessibility auditing to Government buildings for people with disabilities. In regards to access to justice, Judiciary only has a guiding policy for access to Justice for the people including disabilities and that has already been shared through pamphlets during the outreach program conducted to more than 10 outer islands. The project was funded by Canada in 2021 and ended in 2022. The status for Judicary’s building has captured most areas where disability communities could able to receive assistance in terms of filing cases, lodging complaints, access court hearings and etc.
Article 14
Liberty and Security of person
Reply to paragraph 10 of the list of issues
32.The office of the Attorney General is now working on the bill or amendments to this Mental Treatment Ordinance. There is a possibility that this bill will be ready for this upcoming parliament sitting.
Article 15
Protection Against Torture and Other Cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
Reply to paragraph 11 (a) of the list of issues
33.Chapter II of the Constitution state the Protection of Fundamental Right and Freedoms of the Individual:
Fundamental right and freedom of the Individual;
Protection of right to life;
Protection of right to personal liberty;
Protection from slavery and forced labour;
Protection from deprivation of property;
Protection to privacy of home and other property;
Provision to secure protection of the law;
Protection of freedom of expression;
Protection of freedom of assembly and association;
Protection of freedom movement;
Protection from discrimination on the grounds of race, etc.;
Provision for periods of public emergency;
Enforcement of protective provisions;
Interpretations and savings.
34.Every person in Kiribati is protected under the law, no one (including person with disability) shall be subjected to torture or inhuman or degrading punishment or other treatment. Mental Health Treatment Ordinance has been reviewed and amend to the Kiribati context and ready to be tabled. It specifically stated in Mental Health Bill 2022 Part III: Involuntary Mental Health Care that people with the unsound mind are also protected under this bill from any forms of torture. This bill is waiting for approval and endorsement from the Cabinet prior it is tabled in Parliament in upcoming sitting within this year.
Reply to paragraph 11 (b) of the list of issues
35.Penal Code 1977 has been amended however the amendment only related to the rape offences and the incest offences. Corporal punishment is prohibited in all setting and enforce through the establishment of Education Act and Children Young Person Welfare Act and other related Acts in Kiribati. Education Acts clearly states that corporal punishment in schools is not acceptable under any cases. The principal or any members or a staff of a school could be fine $1000 and 6 months in prison if corporal punishment administers to a student (section 43). Children and Young People Welfare Act 2013 served to promote the wellbeing of children and young person through positive parenting and traditional practices that could provide care and protection. It mentions in section 5 that parent responsibility is to ensure discipline is carried out in a non-abusive way which means no corporal punishment at all and to make sure as well that all needs for child with disabilities could meet. Section 15 on prevention services clearly state that raising public awareness on the dangers and consequences of child abuse, neglect and exploitation is another form to reinforce positive caring and protective practice by parents, families, and communities to reduce and stop corporal punishment at home.
Article 16
Freedom from exploitation, violence and abuse
Reply to paragraph 12 (a) of the list of issues
36.Currently there are laws that facilitate the prevention of all forms of exploitation, violence and abuse against all people including people with special need. These laws are:
Constitution – chapter 2 that contains fundamental rights and freedom of individuals including people with special needs. Such rights include right to life, right to protect from inhuman treatment, right to protect from slavery and forced labor, protection from discrimination on the grounds of race. Right of an individual to be treated equally, etc.;
Employment and Industrial Relation Code (EIRC 2015);
Section 107 – protection from discrimination. An employee shall not be discriminated iro recruitment, training, and promotion because of his/her origin, race, color, disability etc.;
Part III: Children – this part also establishes the circumstances and ages at which children may work and confers certain rights on children and provides protection in view of their vulnerability to exploitation;
Part XIV: Prevention of forced labor to anyone including people with special needs;
Education Act 2013 – section 6 provide special educational needs’, in relation to a student with a disability, means the student’s need for education to be tailored to suit the student’s individual requirements, and to receive other forms of support and assistance, to maximize the student’s academic and social development;
Child Labor Regulation 2022 is still in Drat but it will serve to protect all children with and without disability from all form of exploitation.
37.However, all forms of abuse cases must be reported to all front-line services such as Kiribati Police Service, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Kiribati Women and Children Support Centre, our lady of the Sacred Heart, Social Welfares which include all Assistant Social Welfare Officers from outer islands. All front-line services use a tool called referral pathway to refer a survivor from one service to another for help.
Reply to paragraph 12 (b) of the list of issues
38.Te Rau n te Mwenga Act (2014) does not spell out people with disabilities but it served to protect everyone in a family including people with disabilities. Te Rau n te Mwenga Act and Gender Equality are under reviewed now and take into consideration people with disabilities opinion and comments that could help to cater their need and protection. The Women Division has been worked with Disability Unit to incorporate disability inclusion into policies, programs, and activities.
Reply to paragraph 12 (c) of the list of issues
39.Safe Net is what we called “Te Nete n Kamaiu”, it administered by DID from MWYSSA to protect survivors of domestic violence. SafeNet consist of all front-line services including Women Centre, Police, Health, Social Welfare, Court, and Women Development Division. All those service provider work together to address domestic violences issues or help victims. All tools that are used are standardized including a referral pathway which is successfully launch and practice by all service providers. Here are the following tools that are used:
Intake forms for survivor – all front-line service merge their own intake forms with Safe Net intake forms. This intake forms helps to collect data on Domestic violence in Kiribati. All training on that provided from SafeNet expertise on database;
SOP (Standard Operation Procedure);
GBV database centralized at WDD(SafeNet) and usually get an extract updated data from all SafeNet members on domestic violence including data from the outer island.
Reply to paragraph 12 (d) of the list of issues
40.The act of exploitation, violence and abuse against persons including persons with disabilities has been considered illegal actions under relevant laws e.g., Te Rau n te Mwenga Act, there are fines established under this Act to anyone committing such illegal actions. For example:
$250.00 or maximum term of 6 month to a person who commits domestic violence offences referred to in subsection (1);
$500.00 or maximum term of 12 month imprison to a person who commits a domestic violence referred to in subsection (1) for second time;
$1000.00 or maximum of 3 years of imprisonment to a person who commits domestic violence offences referred to in subsection (1) for the third time.
41.It also states in the Rau n te Mwenga Acts Section 34 subsection (2) that in relations to domestic violence, the following circumstances shall be considered as aggravated circumstances, resulting in enhancing penalties for the offenders where:
Domestic violence committed against children, or the action of domestic violence performed in the presence of a minor;
Domestic violence is committed against person with special needs, pregnant women, or a woman who due to whatever reason, is incapable of resisting;
Violence is severe or life threatening;
A weapon is used or;
The respondent has committed repeated incidences of domestic violence.
42.This Act is under review and there is a possibility that all concerned, issues and gaps that are raise based on this Act will be considered into this amendment or review.
Article 17
Protection of Personal Integrity
Reply to paragraph 13 of the list of issues
43.The ordinance has been repealed by the Mental Health 2022. All issues in relation with disabilities decision making for medical treatment covered in Mental Health 2022 Part IV: Consent, Authorization and Regulation of Treatment. Thus, the Bill is planning to be tabled in Parliament by 2024.
Article 18
Liberty of Movement and Nationality
Reply to paragraph 14 of the list of issues
44.Under the Kiribati constitution chapter III (19), every person of Kiribati shall have the right to enter and reside in Kiribati, and under the Immigration Ordinance (1980), the movement of citizens, including disabilities, is protected under this Act. There is an amendment act made to the Birth, Death, Marriage’s act 2007, providing that it is a requirement for every child who is born to be registered. In outer islands, local nurses have a form of birth registration that they can use and fill it up with a home-birth child. Thus, for disabled children, as the report on para.79 of Kiribati to the CPRD committee, due to poor infrastructure, lack of transport and the inaccessibility/isolation of some communities, this has affected their child to be registered. But it is the responsibility of parents to register their child after the birth with the medical assistance or Social Welfare Officer in the outer islands, as registered birth by home could also be done through electronics registration application forms, where upon registration at the time, then upon completion, it enters to the date and birth registrar record in the Civil Registration Office within the Ministry of Justice.
Article 19
Rights to live independently and to be included in the Community
Reply to paragraph 15 of the list of issues
45.Initial report is always made by Ministry of Justice: Human Right Division and it required a lot of information’s and data’s from all relevant stakeholders. Secretariat of Human Right Task Force constantly work with all stakeholders to make sure all relevant information and data are included. To make the report more successes, the following steps is helpful to ensure all stakeholders comments and inputs are taken into consideration. This kind of mechanism is called NMIRF, which is the Government Taskforce established to do the reporting on treaties GOK has ratify. The process is detailed below:
Consult all Kiribati National Human Right Task Force Members;
Share the thematic areas and appointed relevant stakeholders that under their portfolio;
Collect data and information from stakeholders;
Compile all the responses;
Validate all the compile responses with KNHRTF to ensure all important information included and correct;
Submission to cabinet for endorsement;
MFAI to submit to Secretariat in Geneva.
46.We also work with our international partners such as SPC/Human Rights and Social Development together with the OHCHR based in Suva in providing training to taskforce members on their roles as a member and train them on Reporting capacity, as well as the Commonwealth Secretariate in conducting training also for the taskforce members on the Reporting Cycle and Initial reporting with the Shadow reports.
Article 20
Personal Mobility
Reply to paragraph 16 (a) of the list of issues
47.There is no medical cost for the people of Kiribati as the GOK do provide free medication as well as referral pathways for people like disability and other serious cases like heart surgery and other major undertaken that requires financial support. All cost are catered by the GOK to all her citizens.
Reply to paragraph 16 (b) of the list of issues
48.GOK through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services have guidelines for distribution of mobility aids, such as those who needed wheel-chairs usually register their interest through their clinics in their station and whenever there is aids donations from donors, the distribution is done according to the registered need from various clinics through out the country. The way the system works, is looking the various cases of disability and provide aids for their needs according to the necessary aids devices provided by international partners of the GOK.
Reply to paragraph 16 (c) of the list of issues
49.Rehabilitation program usually have its own design training throughout the country whereby specialist regularly visits all islands throughout the year and did the mobility clinics to those who may need back problems, bones issues. Etc.
Article 21
Freedom of expression and opinion and access to information
Reply to paragraph 17 (a) of the list of issues
50.DID strengthen the recognition of Kiri Sign Language and the use of Sign language interpreters to improve accessibility to information, communication and to expression of opinion to person with visual and auditory impairments. MICT also develop an inclusive ICT Policy 2019 that could assist people with disability in the 21st Century to access ICT services. For instance, established operator equipment’s for providing devices and software that will enable people with disability to access ICT service. Building code also provides standard to Government for disability to provide ramp, which will design for easy wheelchair access.
Reply to paragraph 17 (b) of the list of issues
51.MWYSSA work together with MICT and KIT to trained people with special need on how to use device aid to access information. For instance, the use of headphones and programs to access information through sound for people who had vision impairment. The encourage use of braille printer for vision impairment in schools including the provision of Teacher Aid and interpreters.
Reply to paragraph 17 (c) of the list of issues
52.The provision of 25 Teacher Assistance (certificate III) to 9 model Inclusion School is another form of assisting people with disability to make sure that they access information with full understanding just like other students. The purpose of having teaching aids in schools is to assist child with disabilities with the provision on Sign Language interpretation, to make sure assistance device is in place to support along her/his learning journey. There is a plan on extending model of Inclusion School to the island of Abemama as the island that all level of education from preschool to Senior Secondary School occurs on the island.
Reply to paragraph 17 (d) of the list of issues
53.Inclusive Information has been practiced in Kiribati to make sure everyone accesses to all information on equal basis. During COVID-19 pandemic all broadcasting news for the protection and safety of people convey in different forms of communication to make sure everyone including people with disability have the same understanding on what happened. Information that broadcast through radio, handout, roadshows are also translated into sign language and
Article 22
Respect for Privacy
Reply to paragraph 18 of the list of issues
54.The Kiribati constitution, protection to private life or privacy is protected under chapter II section 3. Under the CRPD/C/KIR/1, para.94 a report made from Kiribati in regarding this article, it is said that there has been no translation into policy of this constitutional right to ensure its application and protection:
There must be legislative and policy measures that will be considered to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities and respect for privacy;
As it is also stated under this report under para.94, a cultural stigma, still alive in Kiribati where people mock other people with special needs;
Therefore, it would be better if legislation be established to stop this violation to the privacy of persons with disability and if those persons violate or are unwilling to respect that, they would be given penalty according to the law.
Article 23
Respect for the Home and Family
Reply to paragraph 19 (a) of the list of issues
55.Section 6 of the Children Young People Family Welfare Acts state that every decision that based on the child and young person will consider the best interest of the child. It a one factor that need to be measured before a decision has been made or action taken. Women Development Division from MWYSSA also run a program that called Eliminating Sexual and Gender Based Violence. MHMS also have a welfare officer that could always assist PWD. Domestic Violences Counsellor and Counsellors from the MWYSSA can provide counselling session for Domestic Violence victims and counselling session for general’s issues. Kiribati Police Service – Domestic Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Units state that everyone is protected under the Kiribati Police Service Policy.
Reply to paragraph 19 (b) of the list of issues
56.It mentions in Section 5 of CPFW Act, that parent have the primary role in protection and promoting the wellbeing of the child and to ensure children with and without disabilities needs are met. Social Welfare at MWYSSA also run a program that called “Yes I do Program/Young Couple Program” to eliminate domestic violence and abuses within a home or family. This program trained young couples to nurture their family into a positive and good parenting.
Reply to paragraph 19 (c) of the list of issues
57.The provision of the Kiribati Disability Allowance is another form of financial support to PWD to ensure that they are well protected and not separated from their parents. Having another source of income for PWD can give a full enjoyment to the parent and children under the ground of disability. It gives encouragement and motivation to the family to tied together and work as a family to protect and support each other.
Article 24
Educations
Reply to paragraph 20 (a) of the list of issues
58.Inclusive Education Policy 2020 is revised version of the 2015 policy. The revised version now included Gender Equality and Social Inclusion. The achieved services and activities that align with the IE policy:
Integration of human rights and gender equality in School curricula from Primary to Senior Secondary School;
Development of gender inclusive books;
Training of Curriculum Development officers on Inclusion and Gender;
Offering Pre-Serice and In-Service to KTC Trainers on Social Citizenship, Disability and Gender.
Reply to paragraph 20 (b) of the list of issues
Currently attending school (number of persons aged 3+)
|
Yes |
No |
Do not know |
Total |
|
|
Strata |
||||
|
South Tarawa |
19 303 |
35 645 |
71 |
55 019 |
|
Northern |
7 280 |
11 780 |
41 |
19 101 |
|
Central |
2 864 |
4 976 |
20 |
7 860 |
|
Southern |
4 905 |
9 374 |
0 |
14 279 |
|
Line Is. & Phoenix |
2 926 |
5 008 |
0 |
7 935 |
|
Total |
37 279 |
66 783 |
131 |
104 194 |
|
Urban-Rural |
||||
|
Urban |
19 303 |
35 645 |
71 |
55 019 |
|
Rural |
17 976 |
31 138 |
61 |
49 175 |
|
Sex |
||||
|
Male |
19 018 |
33 432 |
62 |
52 512 |
|
Female |
18 261 |
33 352 |
69 |
51 682 |
|
Age group |
||||
|
3–14 years |
29 340 |
770 |
12 |
30 122 |
|
15–17 years |
4 204 |
1 513 |
0 |
5 717 |
|
18–59 years |
3 718 |
58 169 |
119 |
62 006 |
|
60+ years |
17 |
6 332 |
0 |
6 349 |
|
Disability status |
||||
|
With disability |
1 919 |
3 977 |
17 |
5 913 |
|
Without disability |
31 627 |
62 540 |
115 |
94 282 |
|
Aged less than 5 years |
3 733 |
266 |
0 |
3 999 |
|
Per capita expenditure quintile |
||||
|
1 |
7 877 |
12 156 |
28 |
20 061 |
|
2 |
7 775 |
12 639 |
27 |
20 442 |
|
3 |
7 316 |
13 695 |
2 |
21 013 |
|
4 |
7 458 |
13 676 |
38 |
21 173 |
|
5 |
6 853 |
14 617 |
35 |
21 506 |
|
Total |
37 279 |
66 783 |
131 |
104 194 |
It a collected data from Kiribati 2019 – 2020 HIES report that focus on the number of people from the age of 3 upward that are currently attending school. It also states the number of people with disability with their difficulties and age group and sex and the located area they live .
Reply to paragraph 20 (c) of the list of issues
59.Readiness assessment and mainstreaming passed children with disabilities from Kiribati Schools and Centre of Children with Special Needs (KSCCSN) to a 9 Model Inclusion Schools (9 Mode Inclusion Schools are Bareaumai, Bikenibeu West, Abaunamou, St John, TUC 1, BTC JSS, KGV, SLHS and WGMC). Provision of 25 Teacher Assistants (Certificate III) to 9 Model Inclusion Schools where they will assist children with disabilities. The supporting of deaf children with the provision of Sign Language Interpreters to the Deaf Schools TUC 1 JSS and Saint Louise High School. The Provision of Professional development training for TA’s and Interpreters and Extension of model inclusion school establishments to outer island. The selected island is Abemama for having all schools level from primary to SSS and more importantly, there are 3 senior secondary schools such as SDA, Alfred Sadd and Chevalier. JSS schools identified as the place of bullying, have been given awareness on respectful relationships as part of Gender based awareness. In collaboration with MWYSSA – Gender Division, each JSS has 6 representatives who are regarded as Gender Advocates or champion who will help to model good value dramatize Gender-based expectation and others. JSS school draw actions plan consisting of different way of eliminating bullying or development respectful relationships among boys and girls. The activities involve sports, drama, speeches, Sign Board design and so on. Working together with the Ministry of Labor through KIT for pathways of our students with disabilities Inclusive literacy Program is now trial at Bekenibeu west. The program is to help those children with dyslexia and those who really need help in learning the Kiribati even English language. This is both an inclusive and gender-based program as it is an assistive tool for boys who are vulnerable in academic fields.
Reply to paragraph 20 (d) of the list of issues
60.School bus is for all children with and without disabilities. Providing them another bus may be a form of discrimination. Ministry of Education provide a school bus for all students with and without disabilities. It a free transport for everyone and it normally run before and after school on weekdays only. Providing another transport for person with disabilities could be a form of discrimination.
Article 25
Health
Reply to paragraph 21 (a) of the list of issues
61.The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) catered for all classes of people such as disabilities in all their needs through their gender and deformities and rehabilitation services such as providing wheelchairs free and also walking clutch for those who are not able to walk properly. Although the technologies for rehabilitation is now also available in the Medical Services for physical therapy in assisting those who could not walk and were given procedures through the rehabilitation team in the Medical Services in assisting these people to regain their muscles and reverse them to their normal state by using modern machines in the rehabilitation services.
Reply to paragraph 21 (b) of the list of issues
62.In general, Health Facility and Readiness Services have been incorporated into the national policies and plans. In the MHMS and strategic Plan 2020–2030 (NHSP), which is aligned closely with the Kiribati Version 20 years version 2016–2036 and the SDGs, provides guidance for the government and health system. RMNCAH Strategic Plan 2018–2022 has been developed that specifically outlines objectives and implementation strategies to improve early childbirth advises to avoid deformity in the new birth of a mother. Also protection of early child pregnancy services to avoid unmatured mother and to prevent also any new birth deformity from the lack of awareness on the growth of the child and the health of the mother during pregnancy period till delivery. All preventions and early interventions through this system of the MHMS aligns with the SDG’s goal 3: Good health and well being is what the referral pathway for early identification to address absence of deformity in birth.
Reply to paragraph 21 (c) of the list of issues
63.The MHMS have department, where they looked after the disabilities in all kinds of deformities and also they provide trainings to medical team members as part of the first aid training and also to specifically have special trainings to the medical team members on how to handle cases for disabilities, through the current rehabilitation policies 2018–2022, Rehabilitation have their own centre ward facility, where they do provides trainings not only to doctors and nurses but to the communities at large in the nation. This kind of activities has been going on for a decade and they rebuild their facilities through donors’ funding assistance and technical advises also provides capacity trainings to team members of the rehab centre on the disability’s cases.
Reply to paragraph 21 (d) of the list of issues
64.MHMS is the lead team on the reproductive health rights and HIV/AIDS as they do have unit in the MHMS monitoring HIV/AIDS cases for the nation and also provides medication to people who have HIV/AIDS. As part of the Strategic plan of the MHMS, 2018–2022 and further, do have in place an awareness clinic in all communities on the islands as all disabilities and others accommodated for their medical treatment any time they may require. Also, their services in the Medical team, where clinics wards with community nurses do deliver medication to disabilities who could not be able to walk to the main clinics wards in their community.
Reply to paragraph 21 (e) of the list of issues
65.Under the policies of HIV/AIDS, no one has to know the patient who have HIV/AIDS as to avoid hate speech against these people for their security from others who may hate these people who have this kinds of diseases. All medical records under the policies of MHMS is prohibited to release any persons medical history without the person’s consent unless for government needs on the record of individual for employment, then MHMS may release those reports but direct to the Employer of any Government Ministries but kept private.
Article 26
Habilitation and rehabilitation
Reply to paragraph 22 (a) of the list of issues
66.Under the Ministry of Health Strategies Plan (MHSP) 2016–2019, the outer islands is also included as they usually send their staff to the outer islands to run a program for habitation and rehabilitation program. This is part of the MHSP to ensure that all disability in the outer islands access to these services. Furthermore, Medical Assistance in the outer islands also involved in assisting disability people to continue the work of specialists for disability, as they received trainings from them to continue the medical assistance to these people in their respective outer islands they station.
Reply to paragraph 22 (b) of the list of issues
67.Monitoring mechanism done by the rehabilitation Division in the MHMS where their program is to ensure the continuity of the disability people with special needs, to be assisted by specialists, like for bone cases, where they may need specialists on bone therapy or other complications, that rehabilitation in the central hospital also follow-up people with various cases to medical assistance to report their status and medical experts may provide assistance as required.
Article 27
Work and Employment
Reply to paragraph 23 (a) of the list of issues
68.Currently we have national laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability for instance and other races and colors. Under Chapter 2 of the Constitution that contains fundamental rights and freedom of individuals including people with special needs. Such rights include rights to life, rights to protect from inhuman treatment, rights to protect from discrimination on the grounds of race, Rights of an individual to be treated equally, etc. In addition, under the EIRC 2015 Section 107, prohibits discrimination based on disability (Section 107 subsection 2 in respect of recruitment, training promotion, terms and conditions of employment, termination of employment. The Ministry of Employment and Human Resources notes the importance of having measures in place and is considering holding consultation with PSO and other relevant stakeholders in enforcing this provision.
Reply to paragraph 23 (b) of the list of issues
69.The Disability Inclusive Divion (DID) have a program to promote economic empowerment to Te Toamatoa (NGO’s) so they can create their own business, maintain financial independence as well as inherit property. DID also run a program on Joinery and Carpentry for both genders, sewing to women only, massage training for visual impaired only and agriculture. They also did the workshop on how to start their own business and to become entrepreneurs in future. In the civil service there are women working with Ministry of Internal Affairs and Ministry of Health and Medical Services who competes for the posts and included as civil servant after passing all the tests and interviews. Therefore, the recruitment for disability in the Government and private sectors is common practice at this time, as they went through education and receive qualifications and compete to the posts they have been trained on.
Reply to paragraph 23 (c) of the list of issues
70.Promote economic empowerment to Te Toamatoa so they can create their own business, maintain financial independence as well as inherit property. DID run a program on Joinery and Carpentry for both genders, sewing to women only, massage training for visual impaired only and agriculture. They also did the workshop on how to start their own business and become entrepreneurs in the future. Ministry of Employment Human Resources (MEHR) through Kiribati Institute of Technology offers accounting courses and Business program. In addition there are several NGO’s like TE TOAMATOA also provides capacity training to the disability NGO’s to enhance their skills on business and to become entrepreneurs and cooperative.
Reply to paragraph 23 (d) of the list of issues
71.The MEHR through KIR engages students with disabilities in construction work in the community as part of the student’s work placement.
Article 28
Adequate standard of Living and Social protection
Reply to paragraph 24 (a) of the list of issues
72.The Poverty analysis analysed from the HIES report 2019 result and extracted the disability progress. Please refer to the NSO website (www.nso.gov.ki) on the Poverty Report.
Reply to paragraph 24 (b) of the list of issues
73.The current allowances and support for the three Government Funding Supports still have the current rate as previous mentioned in the report that elderly still receive $200 every month and Child supports scheme for students whose parents deceased or disabled still receive this benefit from the Government through MWYSSA. Also, for those students who are eligible and have goods passes also receive scholarship funding supports, it does not matter whether you are disable or not, this scheme applies to all students that passes the external exams for Form 3 and external exam to Form Six and external exam for Form Seven for full scholarship by the Government.
Reply to paragraph 24 (c) of the list of issues
74.People with special needs are always included in Training and Awareness that are run by the Government and NGOs. Radio awareness programs are implemented bi-annually focusing on the nature of the KDSA. This is to allow people to be fully aware of the program that they may be entitled to.
Article 29
Participation in Political and public life
Reply to paragraph 25 (a) of the list of issues
75.The MWYSSA and technical partners are still working on the TA as the first draft of the bill has been in progress, but needs to be reviewed again by the TA from the Pacific Island Forum who assisted the Disability Inclusive Division to provide, bill drafting and also funds the TA with its program to complete the development of the bill. At this period in time it is still in progress, but the target year is next year to roll out, as the local TA is already advertised to assist the expatriate TA.
Reply to paragraph 25 (b) of the list of issues
76.The Election Act, details that all people are considered to involve in the politics as all level whether local government or to Parliament, there is no restrictions to any person who may wished to involve in politics. All levels of people with disability are accessible to equal opportunities with others to vote and also be elected from their own constituency they chose to be elected.
Reply to paragraph 25 (c) of the list of issues
77.Vote system by the election Commission also provides access to people who could not walk and to cater for their needs if they wish to vote. Things like for blind disability the Election Commission are working with their international partners to fund this kind of assistance as to ensure that voting for the people are accessible to all levels of people in their kind of disability they inherit.
Article 30
Participation in cultural life, recreation, leisure and sport
Reply to paragraph 26 of the list of issues
78.The National Disability Committee looks into the functions of socializing program, where during the International Disability Day usually involves sports activities. Further during the International Human Rights Day the Disability singing group also involved in the competition and other Governmental Programs like cultural sharing through the education system and Special School needs for dissability. Awareness through radio program and outer islands advocacy usually part of the program for the Government within the Disability Inclusive Division and Human Rights Rights with Ministry of Education and Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy (MISE) in advocating to all NGO’s and FBO’s the rights of the disability pathway accessibility in all buildings such Government and Churches and Communities assembly hall.
Reply to paragraph 27 of the list of issues
79.At this time, the Kiribati National Human Rights Taskforce will work on it in the coming future, as they are priorities of the Disability Inclusive Division to make first the bill for the disability and will look into this treaty through the advice of our partners together with funding supports and human resources. Therefore, this will be taken on board after the KNHRTF has endorsed and benefits of the conventions to our people who blind and visually impaired and explained to our taskforce members for consideration.
III.Specific obligation (Articles 31–33)
Article 31
Statistics and data collection
Reply to paragraph 28 (a) of the list of issues
80.National Statistics Office are working with the international standards as to ensure that all provisions of the convention are covered in the data collection.
Reply to paragraph 28 (b) of the list of issues
81.The GOK National Statistics Office do website that could be accessible to the general public for their information.
Article 32
International cooperation
Reply to paragraph 29 (a) of the list of issues
82.Australian Aids assist Kiribati in funding the Kiribati National Disability Policy and Action Plan 2018–2021. The UN Women with Pacific Islands Forum and EU-funding assist Kiribati for the TA for legal drafting for the Specific bill for Disability and to incorporate CRPD conventions articles that are necessary to be included. Also SPC through Human Rights and Social Development within MOJ also assist the Disabilities in their program such as the legal assistance for shadow report for CRPD for Civil Societies, (Te Toa Matoa) and other capacity Building for the disability on the CRPD joint with Disability Inclusive Division within the MYSSA.
Reply to paragraph 29 (b) of the list of issues
83.The Government of Kiribati is a PIF member as they are part of the Pacific Blue Ocean Policy that designs by the Head of States in the PIF. After the Government of Fiji as the Chairperson of the PIF came and reconciled with the GOK to return to the PIF.
Reply to paragraph 29 (c) of the list of issues
84.Disability Inclusive Division works with international partners through the GOK partners, also Australian Aids and New Zealand also assist the GOK through the MWYSSA in funding their activities that are related to Disability. Australian Aids also assist Te Toa Matoa in funding their capacity building with other partners such as NEW Zealand Aids and Regional Partners through South Pacific Community and EU-Funding with the Republic of China in donating supports like t-shirts for promoting the rights of the Disabilities and others.
Article 33
National implementation and monitoring
Reply to paragraph 30 (a) of the list of issues
85.It is budgetary from the GOK under the Inclusive Disability Unit within the MWYSSA, as this is the special Council which is independent as established through the Government. It is technical resources provided by the Government Staff who are secretariat
Reply to paragraph 30 (b) of the list of issues
86.At this time the NHRI for the promotion and protection of human rights, the MOJ has done the scoping studies with the Human Rights & Social Development, as the recommendations is now in the pipeline for further discussion with partners such as SPC/HRSD and other partners to work on the recommendations for budgetary provisions and to pilot the NHRI for the 1st year, as this is to be considered further with partners.
Reply to paragraph 30 (c) of the list of issues
87.There is disabilities committee which is the main mechanism that track all the activities and implementations of the CRPD activities together with funding supports to their organisations. Within MYWYSSA the Inclusive Disability Unit usually follow-up on the implementation activities that CRPD civil societies usually implementing such as capacity trainings for agricultural landscaping, capacity building on leadership and focus roles of disabilities. Special school trainings for their upbringing to the level of tertiary for those who are able to obtain good passes in academic level and their form of education is also accommodated in the Institutions such as Kiribati Institute Technology and other Institutes like University of the South Pacific.