Children with disabilities

The Committee recalls its general comment No. 9 (2006) on the rights of children with disabilities and urges the State Party to adopt a human rights-based approach to disability and develop an action plan containing specific measures that prevent and protect children with disabilities from systematic discrimination, especially towards children with intellectual disabilities, with a particular focus on participation, involvement and knowledge.

The Committee recommends that the State Party eliminate disparities among municipalities in the provision of health and support services for children with disabilities, and ensure access to such services for all children with disabilities, including children belonging to ethnic minority groups.

The Committee recommends that the State Party improve healthcare services for children with disabilities, including specialized mental health services for children with psychosocial disabilities and those in child welfare institutions.

The Committee recommends that the State Party provide necessary resources for children with disabilities in rural areas.

The Committee recommends that the State Party launch awareness campaigns aimed at eliminating bullying practices against children with disabilities.

The Committee recommends that the State Party prevent the institutionalization of children with disabilities and ensure their access to family and community-based services, including respite-care services.

The Committee recommends that the State Party strengthen the monitoring of residential facilities for children with disabilities by ensuring sufficient resources.

The Committee recommends that the State Party undertake awareness-raising campaigns aimed at government officials, the public and families to combat the stigmatization of, and prejudice against, children with disabilities and promote a positive image of children with disabilities as rightsholders.