3. Take urgent steps to improve access to justice of women with disabilities
particularly for cases of sexual violence
Review and amend all policies in the justice system to ensure equality and
nondiscrimination of women with disabilities. Institutionalize procedural
accommodations and awareness training for law enforcement and court officials on
disability-related and gender-based violence.
Lower courts should implement the Supreme Court circular on re-establishing the sign
language system. The courts, civil society organizations and service providers should
collaborate to develop the network of sign language interpreters competent to handle
gender-based violence against deaf women.
The government should make clear efforts in enforcing Views of the CEDAW
Committee on the Optional Protocol Cases filed by KTV and ‘R’. Further, it should
ensure that all officials involved in the administration of VAW cases are competent in
handling disability and gender related offenses. Barangay VAW Desks, barangay police
and barangay health centers should develop greater sensitivity to gender and disability
issues.
4. Increase public awareness on the rights and situation of women with disabilities,
addressing in particular the prejudice and stereotypes based on disability and
gender
The concept of disability itself is still evolving. It is best to work with women with
disabilities for a more accurate representation of their lives and issues than to rely on
old laws for guidance. This applies to the government, the media, and civil society.
Government should take steps to ensure meaningful participation of women with
disabilities in community initiatives, in national and local planning processes, in
implementation and monitoring of programs and projects.
The media should increase their sensitivity and awareness on disability and gender
issues to prevent stereotyping that reinforces discriminatory attitudes and perceptions
towards women with disabilities.
Civil society organizations has a critical role in promoting better understanding of
disability and gender issues. Civil society organizations should continue in actively
working with women with disabilities across issues and creating more opportunities for
mutual capacity building on disability, gender and all intersecting issues.
5. Ensuring free and accessible basic services for women with disabilities
[15]
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