The UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has wrapped up its initial review of Kiribati’s report on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Committee experts praised Kiribati’s disability policy framework, including the national disability policy for 2018–2025, a joint disaster response plan, and the production of disability monographs that informed government policy. They also pressed questions about accessibility in infrastructure and services, and the continued issue of forced institutionalisation.
Rosemary Kayess, a committee expert and coordinator for Kiribati, welcomed the state’s framework for protecting disability rights but flagged ongoing accessibility problems in transportation, airport facilities, and government offices. She asked how Kiribati is addressing these gaps and whether there are enforcement mechanisms for the Building Code and accessibility standards.
Hiroshi Tamon, another committee member, inquired about measures to abolish forced institutionalisation of persons with mental disabilities and how non-consensual psychiatric treatment is prevented.
Introducing Kiribati’s report, Kaaro Neeti, the Secretary for the Ministry of Justice and head of the delegation, said that since ratifying the Convention in 2013, Kiribati had progressed steadily in promoting disability rights. The national disability policy 2018–2025 provides the framework, with emphasis on accessibility, inclusive education, healthcare, employment, and empowerment.
On accessibility, Neeti noted that the Kiribati Building Act 2024 mandates accessibility standards for all new public buildings. The government has improved access to public spaces, transport, and services through ramps, accessible toilets, sign language interpretation, and Braille signage. The delegation added that structural assessments are underway and recommendations will be provided for buildings lacking accessible facilities, and there are plans to seek funding for accessible transportation in outer islands to support inclusion.
Regarding institutionalisation, the delegation said a new mental health bill awaiting Parliament’s finalisation would allow involuntary admission of individuals with psychological disabilities only when they pose a threat to themselves or others, with patients released into the community once it is deemed safe to continue treatment outside institutions.
Abiteta Teitibwebwe, Interim Head of Mission at Kiribati’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva, highlighted notable progress in accessible infrastructure, education, and the strengthening of Kiribati’s legal framework, while acknowledging ongoing challenges and reaffirming the government’s commitment to policy reforms.
Committee member Tamon commended the country’s work but urged faster implementation through legislative and policy amendments, and looked forward to seeing action on the government’s planned measures for people with disabilities without delay. Miyeon Kim, the committee chair, closed the dialogue by recognizing the insights gained about Kiribati’s situation and urged the state to turn the committee’s concluding observations into concrete actions.
Kiribati’s delegation to the UN dialogue included representatives from the Attorney-General’s Office; Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Health and Medical Services; Ministry of Women, Youth and Social Affairs; Office of Te Beretitenti; Quality Control and Inspection Unit; Meeria Ward Department; and the Permanent Mission to Geneva. The committee will issue its concluding observations at the end of its thirty-third session on 26 August.
Context and outlook
The review comes as Kiribati is also participating in the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process, with a session scheduled in late April 2025, ahead of the next round of recommendations in May. The UPR process and the Disabilities Committee’s review together reflect a broader international emphasis on strengthening rights and protections for vulnerable groups in Kiribati.
Commentary and implications
– The emphasis on enforcing accessibility standards signals a move from policy to practice, with potential improvements in daily life for persons with disabilities.
– The mental health bill signifies progress toward rights-respecting treatment and community-based care, but its effectiveness will depend on robust implementation and safeguards.
– The upcoming concluding observations from the Disabilities Committee will help guide Kiribati’s next steps, including potential legislative amendments, funding priorities for outer islands, and stronger accountability mechanisms.
Summary
Kiribati’s initial report on disability rights shows meaningful policy foundations and concrete accessibility measures, including a 2024 Building Act and steps toward humane mental health care. While progress is evident, the committee has pressed for stronger enforcement, elimination of forced institutionalisation, and rapid implementation of reforms. The coming concluding observations, alongside Kiribati’s participation in the UPR process, will shape the next phase of reforms and investments to advance the rights and living conditions of people with disabilities across the country. Positive momentum remains, with continued focus on translating policy into tangible improvements for all Kiribatians.
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