The Montserrat Association for Persons with Disabilities (MAPD) joined the global observance of International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3, 2024. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” emphasized the importance of involving persons with disabilities in decision-making at all levels.
MAPD President Harjinder Jutle highlighted the day’s significance, particularly as Montserrat finalises its long-term disability strategy. “This is a really important moment for the island and will help overcome some of the difficulties we had in the early days of the CIPREG programme,” Jutle said, noting that past consultations on critical issues such as tourism, accessibility, and building design often fell short of meaningful inclusion.
“One meeting on the hospital was followed by two years of silence,” she reflected. “Progress depended on the goodwill of individual civil servants or contractors… rather than a clear framework.”
However, Jutle expressed optimism about the strategy’s potential to create lasting change. She pointed to Bermuda’s recent achievement of having the UN Convention on Disability Rights extended to it, calling it an inspiration for Montserrat.
“In the mean time, we should also take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of persons with disabilities,” Jutle added, emphasising the importance of recognising progress while continuing to push for greater inclusion and accessibility.
The IDPD theme aligns with global efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the upcoming 2025 World Summit for Social Development. For Montserrat, it serves as a reminder of the work still to be done and the leadership required to ensure an inclusive future.
