Opinion by Sipho Humphrey Sibanda
AS December unfolds, the world turns its attention to two significant global campaigns: the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (henceforth IDPD), observed on December 3 and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (henceforth GBV), which runs from November 25 to December 10th.
Both initiatives highlight critical social issues, advocating for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities.
This goes in line with the Government of Zimbabwe (GoZ)’s leaving no place and no one behind mantra, which is in line with creating inclusive communities.
Established by the United Nations in 1992, the IDPD aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society.
This year’s theme, “Transformative Solutions for Inclusive Development,” emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
As Zimbabwe, we cannot talk about eradicating GBV if PWDs are still victims of violence.
Mostly they fail to access justice due to communication barriers, delayed justice and unfavourable policies.
Let me explain these factors before moving on.
Firstly, our police force whose main role is to protect and serve the communicate are not trained in Sign Language which is the main mode of communication with the deaf community.
This therefore presents a challenge if a member of the deaf community is a victim of GBV.
There is also need for gender awareness within our policy force.
These is the contributing factor to PWDs suffering GBV and not getting justice.
Secondly, the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 20) Act of 2013 stipulates under section 6 that Zimbabwe has 16 officially recognised languages and Sign Language is one of these languages which goes in line with the Judiciary Services Commission (henceforth JSC) stipulations which require provision of an interpreter during court sessions.
However, there is a shortage of Sign Language court interpreters in Zimbabwe which then leads to cases being delayed hence the PWDs suffer.
There is a popular saying in the legal field, which says ‘justice delayed is justice denied’.
Thirdly, Zimbabwe is a signatory of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (henceforth UNCRPD) and very soon (if not yet) will ratify the African disability Protocol (henceforth APD).
This on its own means that Zimbabwe has to align her policies with these two major policy documents that is the cause for a gap in justice delivery.
Back to the IDPD, the day serves as a reminder of the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities, including lack of access to education, employment, and public spaces.
Events worldwide focus on raising awareness, sharing stories of resilience and displaying innovations designed to enhance accessibility.
Coinciding with IDPD, the 16 Days of Activism against GBV is a global campaign that mobilises individuals and organisations to challenge the pervasive violence against women and girls and in this article, with disabilities.
Beginning on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, this campaign culminates on December 10, International Human Rights Day.
Both campaigns address systemic issues that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. PWDs often face heightened risks of violence, making it crucial to recognise the intersectionality of disability and gender.
Women and girls with disabilities are more likely to experience violence and discrimination, underscoring the urgent need for integrated approaches to advocacy.
Advocates for both movements and organisations of PWDs emphasise the importance of collaboration.
By uniting efforts, activists can create more comprehensive strategies to address the unique challenges faced by individuals at the intersection of disability and gender.
This includes promoting policies that ensure equal access to services, education, and safe spaces for all.
As December brings attention to these critical issues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities and the 16 Days of Activism against GBV are not just separate events; they embody a shared vision of a world where all individuals, regardless of ability or gender, can live free from violence and discrimination. As a country, it is high time we do not forget PWDs in all our commemorations.
This December, let us commit to amplifying the voices of those affected by these injustices, fostering inclusive communities, and advocating for transformative change that respect the rights and dignity of all.
Together, we can build a more just and equitable world.
