The abuse and mistreatment of people with disabilities is prevalent in communities across Fiji according to the National Council for Disabled Persons.
Photo: 123rf
The council's executive director Sitiveni Yanuyanutawa says while no official data is available, his organisation continues to receive complaints of such treatment.
Dr Yanuyanutawa says people with disabilities always receive back seat treatment in various communities.
He says this has prompted the council to conduct a nation-wide awareness campaign.
"We usually put it across to different communities that it is important, that first and foremost, they are human. They have emotions and support and the care should be directed to them. We need to have a level playing field for persons with disabilities and whatever services provided to them."
Dr Sitiveni Yanuyanutawa says the government is in the process of ratifying the UN International Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities, which should help bring about changes in the way people are treated.
