Today marks a historic milestone for Papua New Guinea, particularly for the 1.6 million people living with disabilities, as Parliament unanimously passed the country’s first-ever National Disability Services Bill.
All 67 Members of Parliament present voted in favour of the legislation, with none opposed—a powerful show of unity and national commitment to inclusion.
The Bill was introduced and presented by the Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Hon. Jason Peter. In response, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape was the first to commend the Minister and his team, describing the Bill as a fitting 50th Independence anniversary gift for persons with disabilities.
“For the first time, PNG will have a law that promotes and protects the rights of people with disabilities,” the Prime Minister stated.
The new law represents a major step forward in ensuring equal rights and opportunities for persons with disabilities. It aims to dismantle existing barriers to accessibility, foster inclusive participation, and establish support systems across critical areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and political life.
In addition to its national impact, the legislation also fulfills PNG’s international commitment under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which the country ratified in 2013.
As Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence, the passage of this landmark law signals a renewed determination to build a fairer and more inclusive society—where no one is left behind.