Disability Act 2008
https://cookislandslaws.gov.ck/#/
Here are some key points of the Disability Act 2008:
Purpose of the Act
The Act exists to protect the rights of people with disabilities in the Cook Islands.
It aims to ensure equal access to services, opportunities, and participation in society.
Rights of Persons with Disabilities
People with disabilities have the same rights as everyone else.
This includes the right to education, work, health care, and being part of the community.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Public spaces, buildings, and transport should be accessible for people with disabilities.
Information should be available in formats that are easy for everyone to understand.
Equal Opportunity in Employment
People with disabilities should have the same job opportunities as others.
Employers should not discriminate based on disability.
Education
Children with disabilities have the right to go to school and receive the support they need.
Schools should provide inclusive education and help all children succeed.
Health and Well-being
People with disabilities have the right to health care without discrimination.
Health services should be accessible and consider the needs of people with disabilities.
Protection from Abuse and Neglect
The Act protects people with disabilities from any form of abuse, neglect, or discrimination.
Support and resources should be provided to ensure safety and well-being.
Involvement in Decisions
People with disabilities have the right to be involved in decisions about their lives.
They should have a say in laws and policies that affect them.
Government Responsibility
The government is responsible for making sure the Act is followed.
It should promote awareness and understanding of disability rights.
Support Services
The Act requires support services to help people with disabilities live independently and participate fully in the community.
Your Rights
The Office of the Ombudsman is mandated under the Disability Act to investigate complaints of unlawful discrimination in respect of a person with a disability. Please contact them on 20605 or by email ombudsman.complaints@cookislands.gov.ck or by visiting them at their office located in Harley Street, Nkao, Rarotonga.
The Cook Islands National Disability Council is a rights based Organisation of Persons with Disabilities. They advocate and represent persons with disabilities in the Cook Islands. It is their mission to promote equality, dignity, and social inclusion for persons with disabilities. They are located up in Tauae, Takuvaine and you can contact them by by phone on 56513 or by email on cookislands.disability@outlook.com
International Agreements
International Agreements and how the Cook Islands follows the Nations rules for disability rights:
- United Nations Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities
- United Nation on the Conventions of the Rights of a Child
- United Nations Convention on the Elimination of forms of Discrimination against Women