For the first time, RENEW documented ten instances of GBV among people with disabilities last year. Although there are no case studies on the prevalence of GBV in the disabled community, DPOB officials are concerned that increasing public awareness of the rights of people with disabilities is still a significant obstacle in the nation. “Continuous efforts are being made to educate the public on creating an inclusive society,” said DPOB executive director Kinley Wangchuk. He told the tale of a disabled woman who, because of social stigma, felt like a “lesser human being” and was ignorant of her rights. He also emphasized the difficulties in raising awareness and promoting PWDs at the local level, pointing out that many are bedridden and rely on others for mobility and basic necessities.
Physical barriers or a lack of accessible transportation present additional challenges for PWDs with limited mobility when it comes to accessing sensitization programs. Housekeeping training is one of the projects in which DPOB integrates SRHR sessions. Nine PWDs, two PWDs with hearing impairments, three PWDs with low vision, and two PWDs with physical disabilities have all received housekeeping training from DPOB. The training covered sexual and reproductive health and rights, and it was part of a two-month hotel management program last year. He clarified that learning from PWDs’ actual experiences is the only way to truly comprehend the difficulties they face. Kinley Wangchuk emphasized the necessity of an accessible and inclusive justice system.
