The Pacific Islands Forum warmly congratulates Faatino Utumapu of Samoa and Villaney Remengesau of Palau on their successful election to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
This achievement marks a proud milestone for the Blue Pacific and reflects the strength of Pacific leadership in advancing the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities at the global level.
As current and former Co-Chairs of the Pacific Disability Forum, Faatino and Villaney have been unwavering advocates for disability rights and have played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities across our region.
Their election comes at a significant moment as Pacific leaders and partners finalise the refreshed Pacific Framework on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, reinforcing our collective commitment to disability-inclusive development and ensuring that no one is left behind.
The Pacific has made clear its ambition to strengthen its voice and leadership in global disability governance, including the proposal to host a future session of the CRPD Committee in the Pacific by 2030. Their presence on the Committee will help ensure that Pacific perspectives, priorities, and lived experiences contribute meaningfully to international discussions and decision-making.
Speaking on behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum, Palau's Minister of State, Hon. Gustav Aitaro, emphasised this commitment towards meaningful inclusion:
"Guided by the principle of “Nothing about us, without us,” the Pacific Islands Forum remains committed to ensuring disability inclusion is integrated across all sectors, including climate action, health, education, and emerging technologies." -
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat continues to partner with the Pacific Disability Forum as the regional representative body for persons with disabilities, and the Pacific Community (SPC) on this critical work of disability inclusion and equity.
Pacific Islands Forum Statement at 19th Conference of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities:
bit.ly/3Q9dY5W
#iumitugeda #OneBluePacific #disabilityinclusion #LeaveNoOneBehind