In the DRC, the Ituri region is the scene of a sad reality: discrimination against children living with disabilities. Unfortunately, the observation is alarming: hundreds of these children are victims of mockery, exclusion and insults from their peers at school. This unacceptable situation was highlighted by the provincial committee of the children’s parliament, which has received numerous complaints since the beginning of the year.
The Provincial Federation of People Living with Disabilities denounced these acts, describing them as serious violations of the fundamental rights of these children. Vanessa Kabasinguzi, a 17-year-old disabled teenager, testified about her painful experience at school. She feels marginalized because of her physical deformity, and testifies to the unfair treatment she receives from her peers.
Children with disabilities are discriminated against because of their physical appearance, their morphology or their social status. This phenomenon is deeply worrying and must be combated. The provincial president of the Federation of People Living with Disabilities warns of the consequences of discrimination on these vulnerable children. He calls on the authorities and society as a whole to put an end to this injustice and raise awareness of the need to respect the rights of all children.
The new provincial committee of the Ituri Children’s Parliament is making an urgent appeal to the community to promote respect for the rights of children, regardless of their disability. It is imperative to create an inclusive and caring environment where every child, regardless of their status, can flourish and learn with dignity.
It is high time for society to become aware of these injustices and take concrete action to end discrimination against children with disabilities. Every child has the right to education, respect and equal opportunities. It is our duty as a society to protect and support these vulnerable children, to offer them a better future and to promote a culture of tolerance and inclusion. Change begins with education and awareness, and it is imperative that each of us commit to making school a safe and respectful place for all children, without exception.