Freedom of expression in relation to persons with Deaf blindness in Uganda

Abstract

The freedom of expression and is deemed a major human right whose protection is essential for the enjoyment of other rights and is exercised at different levels that is the home, community, and national level. According to the UN Human Rights Committee General Comment No. 34, the freedom of expression is the ‘foundation stone for every free and democratic society.’ This reiterates the internationally accepted position that this right is at the core of human existence and in particular, the wellbeing and development of persons with disabilities. Article 21 of CRPD further mandates state parties to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy and exercise the freedom of expression. This includes the right to seek, receive and impart information through all available forms of communication. Most persons with disabilities have single mainstream impairments which may include visual impairments, auditory loss, mental health conditions, intellectual/learning impairment, neurological, and physical impairment among others. However, there is a heterogeneous group called the Deafblind, with both auditory loss and impaired vision ranging from mild to severe. The loss usually occurs during pregnancy/in early childhood (congenital), or at a later stage in life (acquired or adventitious) either progressively or instantaneously. This impairment affects one’s ability to learn and interact with the society which are fundamental precepts of freedom of expression. It is on this basis that this article analyzes this right in relation to the Deafblind in Uganda