The United Nations Children’s Fund urges the government to ratify and implementing the convention on the rights of people with disabilities and the convention on the rights of children.

South Sudan is among countries that have not signed up to the international conventions for the rights of children and the rights of people with disabilities.

Today, marks the day dedicated by UNICEF to children with disabilities.

The rights of children with disabilities are often ignored in the country, UNICEF’s Country representative, Jasmin Ali, told Eye Radio:

“It is really important that we make sure that all children -not just those who are out of school, but especially those who are out of school due to disability -have access to that school, and for government to demonstrate the commitment to that.”

Meanwhile, an advocacy officer with HANDICAP International – South Sudan, Henry Swaka said children with disabilities make up nearly 3 percent of the children’s population in South Sudan.

“The number has probably increased for several reasons, and of course we’ve new-born children, and also an increase in the number of impairments,” Mr. Swaka added.

Mister Soka added that the lack of special institutions for children with disabilities has always forced parents to keep children with disabilities in doors.

The convention on the rights of children requires that children have the right to survival; to develop to the fullest; to protection from harmful influences, abuse and exploitation; and to participate fully in family, cultural and social life.

While the convention on the rights of people with disabilities is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.