
Jamaica has made significant progress in promoting disability inclusion over the past four years through the implementation of its Disabilities Act, public awareness campaigns, accessibility audits and inclusive government policies. The Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD), led by Executive Director Dr. Christine Hendricks, has strengthened collaboration across government agencies to improve access to public transport, employment opportunities, public buildings and digital services. The Council is also working with municipal authorities to improve compliance with accessibility standards while expanding disability awareness and participation in government programmes. Now established as a statutory body, the JCPD is recruiting additional staff and provides a mechanism for reporting discrimination, with serious cases referred to the Disabilities Rights Tribunal. Although progress is evident, Dr. Hendricks emphasised that achieving full accessibility requires sustained efforts and the gradual realisation of the rights of persons with disabilities under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.


