Basseterre, Saint Kitts, May 01, 2026 (SKNIS) — The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis continues to advance efforts to expand opportunities for persons living with disabilities, fostering a society rooted in equity and inclusion for every citizen and resident. In a major milestone, the first National Disability Policy was laid in the Federal Parliament by Minister of State responsible for Ageing, Disabilities et al, Senator the Honourable Isalean Phillip, on Thursday, April 30, 2026. The national policy covers the period 2026–2030 and provides a framework with guiding principles and an action plan to ensure the full inclusion of persons with disabilities, as echoed in the National Development Planning Framework — a crucial component of the Sustainable Island State Agenda.
The National Disability Policy has ten policy imperatives that will guide continued work for the improvement of the lives and living standards of persons living with a disability in the Federation: (1) Removal of Environmental Barriers — equal access to public spaces, transportation, information and assistive devices; (2) Education, Training and Lifelong Learning — students and adults with disabilities have equal opportunities to attain educational certifications; (3) Economic Inclusion and Financial Security — a right to work, earn, and build a future; (4) Public Awareness and the Attitudinal Barrier — disability rights embedded in the national curriculum, and a national public awareness campaign launch; (5) Health and Wellness — a disability inclusive sector with equitable access to quality healthcare and mental health services; (6) Inclusive Housing and Liveable Communities — a quota for public housing options and a grant programme to retrofit homes, ensuring emergency shelters, sporting facilities and community centres are accessible; (7) Social, Cultural and Public Participation — a right to participate in cultural life, play sports, vote, and have a say in decisions affecting their community; (8) Legal Capacity, Protection and Access to Justice — review of legislation that discriminates against persons with disabilities, and establishment of a Disability Commission to receive and investigate complaints; (9) Disability Data and Research for Planning — structured disaggregated data collection and analysis for continuous monitoring and evaluation of policy goals; (10) Accountability, Implementation and Governance — establish a National Disability Council with a functioning Secretariat to coordinate policy implementation and foster accountability.
Honourable Phillip said that the National Disability Policy demonstrates the government’s commitment to working towards a fully inclusive society that embraces and values every person regardless of their ability.