Vanuatu Disability, Advocacy and Promotion Association
Supporting persons with disability in Vanuatu
The Vanuatu Disability Promotion & Advocacy Association (VDPA), established in 1999, is the primary national Disabled People’s Organization (DPO) in Vanuatu, led by and for people with disabilities. We work to advance rights, promote inclusion, and empower members through more than 30 local affiliate groups and partners.
About The vdpa
Fighting for the rights of persons with disabilities in Vanuatu
Advocacy & Rights
Advocacy and Rights: Acts as the national voice in Vanuatu for people with disabilities, promoting their rights, and ensuring inclusion in community and government agendas.
Capacity Building
Community Capacity Building: The VDPA works with and develops over 30 affiliate groups across Vanuatu to champion disability inclusion at a community level.
Skills Development
Skill Development & employment: Partnering with the Vanuatu Skills Partnership to increase access to training, economic opportunities, and livelihood support..
Our mission
Convention on The Rights of Persons with a disability
Vanuatu was the first Pacific country to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2008, committing to protect the rights of people with disabilities. However, Vanuatu faces challenges in implementing these rights, with calls for better legislative frameworks and real action. Key policies include the National Disability-Inclusive Development Policy 2018–2025 and an Inclusive Education Policy. The VDPA works tirelessly to address challenges exist regarding educational access, with many schools not fully equipped. Concerns also exist regarding the lack of meaningful involvement of persons with disabilities in decision-making and in obtaining employment.
WHat we do
The VDPA is active in supporting persons with disabilities in vanuatu
The VDPA serves as a key member of the Pacific Disability Forum to strengthen disability advocacy on a regional level in Vanuatu. As a registered charity, the VDPA acts as a crucial link between people with disabilities and the government, working to ensure the implementation of rights and policies.
Awareness Raising
The VDPA conducts campaigns to promote positive attitudes and remove barriers to participation in the community, and with a focus on women and girls.
Improving access to services for disabled persons
Mainstreaming efforts seek to identify and overcome barriers to participation by people with disabilities in all aspects of life and society in Vanuatu.
Helping with employment opportunities for persons with a disability
The VDPA is pleased to partner with the Vanuatu Skills Partnership to increase access to training, economic opportunities, and livelihood support for persons living with a disability.
Partners
