Getting Disability Rights into the Mainstream of Human Rights Advocacy: An Appraisal of Zimbabwean Disability Rights Policies and Legislation

Abstract

This article critically examines the policies and legislation on disability rights in Zimbabwe. As a starting point, a brief background on societal attitudes and perceptions on disability in Zimbabwe is given showing that disability is viewed in a negative light resulting in persons with disabilities (PWDs) being subjected to widespread rights violations, discrimination and marginalization. Next, the meaning of the concept of disability is explored and the various attempts to define disability are outlined along with the different models of disability that have been developed from such attempts. Critical questions concerning how effective Zimbabwean policies and legislation are in protecting the rights of PWDs and whether and to what extent they are in line with international standards, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) are then explored. A conclusion is reached that Zimbabwean policies and legislation do not adequately protect the rights of PWDs and that they are far below international standards on the protection of the rights of PWDs. Finally, recommendations are made.