From Paper to Action: Realizing the Rights of People with Disabilities in Bangladesh

Abstract

Persons with disabilities are often considered as one of the marginalized groups in the whole world. Entering the 21^st century, we can find that there has been fundamental change in the concept and attitude towards disability and PWD in many countries including Bangladesh. Following their commitment under the CRPD, the government of Bangladesh has enacted a new legislation in 2013 which has safeguarded some basic rights of the persons with disabilities. We now stress on equal opportunities for them with other citizens. We advocate for the promotion, protection and assurance that PWD can sufficiently and equally enjoy all human rights and basic freedom. Despite this, disabled people in Bangladesh face immense difficulties in accessing services, facilities and opportunities. They often have lower education accomplishment, poorer health conditions, higher poverty rates and less economic engagement than people without disabilities This paper has identified some issues regarding the gaps between the legal entitlements and enjoyment of rights by the disabled people. Also, the paper examines several impediments faced by disabled people in implementing their rights in practice such as discrimination in different sectors, lack of opportunities in education, employment and health services, insufficient facilities in infrastructures, transportations etc. However, this paper has suggested some points which are needed to be prioritized and followed by the concerned authority to ensure their rights guaranteed under law of Bangladesh.