CRC/C/15/Add.227
page 9
5. Basic health and welfare
Children with disabilities
45.
The Committee welcomes the continuing efforts to integrate children with disabilities
into the mainstream education system, in particular in the Netherlands. However, it is concerned
that children with disabilities in the Netherlands spend a significant amount of time waiting to
access services and programmes. In addition, the Committee is concerned that in Aruba,
children with disabilities are not fully integrated into society.
46.
In keeping with the Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for
Persons with Disabilities (General Assembly resolution 48/96 of 20 December 1993), the
Committee recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts to integrate children
with disabilities into mainstream education and everyday life by:
(a)
Taking all necessary measures to eliminate waiting lists for services and
programmes for children with disabilities in the Netherlands;
(b)
Expanding education possibilities for children with disabilities in Aruba,
including those with learning disabilities, at the secondary school level;
(c)
Improving the physical accessibility of mainstream schools, leisure and
recreational facilities, and other public buildings and spaces in Aruba;
(d)
Undertaking awareness-raising campaigns to address prejudicial attitudes to
children with disabilities, and promoting their full integration into society.
Health and health services
47.
The Committee welcomes the low infant and child mortality rates in all parts of the State
party, but is concerned about the relatively low vaccination rates among some religious groups.
The Committee is also concerned that HIV/AIDS infection rates for mothers and children are on
the rise.
48.
The Committee recommends that the State party:
(a)
Take all necessary measures, in cooperation with parents and religious
leaders, to ensure universal vaccination of children;
(b)
Take all necessary measures to reduce mother-to-child transmission of
HIV/AIDS, including but not limited to the use of antiretroviral drugs for pregnant
mothers who are HIV-positive.