Recognizing the rights of children with disabilities in Malawi

Janet Njelesani, Cathy Cameron, Donald Njelesani, Monica Jamali, Jeffrey J.D. Andrion, Alister Munthali

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Little is known about the realization of the rights of children with disabilities in Malawi, including which rights are being met or violated, where protection of rights must be reinforced, and ways that society can support the rights. This study explored the realization of the rights of children with disabilities in Malawi. Data generation included interviews with 30 children with disabilities (15 boys, 15 girls). Data were analyzed using content analysis and Taguette software, with codes generated relating to the UN CRPD articles. Findings indicate that children expressed discrimination and inequities toward the realization of multiple rights. In particular, there remain significant gaps in policy and programs addressing freedom from violence and abuse in community and school settings. The findings of this study will enable duty bearers, decision-makers, and service providers to prioritize initiatives for children with disabilities in Malawi to ensure their comprehensive breadth of rights is met. Points of interest This study examined how the rights of children with disabilities in Malawi are being met. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) provides a framework for developing policy, designing services, and implementing programs for children with disabilities based on their rights. Children with disabilities said they get support, feel respected by family, and don’t feel neglected or abandoned by their parents. The government, community, teachers, NGOs, and families are working together to support the rights of children with disabilities. Significant issues exist in providing inclusive education and preventing violence for children with disabilities, both in terms of services and policies. This study’s results will help those responsible for actions, decision-makers, and service providers in Malawi prioritize policies and programs for children with disabilities, ensuring that their full range of rights is addressed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalDisability and Society
DOIs
StateAccepted/In press - 2024

Keywords

  • Malawi
  • Qualitative
  • children
  • disability
  • human rights

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health(social science)
  • General Health Professions
  • General Social Sciences

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