International Week of the Deaf 2026 has ended with a call for greater recognition of deaf people’s rights and better access to services across Fiji.

The week brought together the deaf community, families, advocates and organisations to raise awareness of the rights, experiences and contributions of deaf people.

This year’s theme focused on declaring deaf people’s human rights, with discussions centred on inclusion, communication and equal participation.

Acting Director for Women Amelia Nairoba highlighted that access to information and services must be made easier for deaf people, including through Fiji Sign Language interpretation and accessible information.

“The rights of deaf people are human rights. They are not special privileges. They are not favors. They should never depend upon a person’s ability to hear or communicate in the same way as others” Nairobi highlighted.

Nairoba said government services must also be designed to ensure persons with disabilities can access the support they need with dignity.

“A right has meaning when a person can actually access it” she continued.

Fiji Disabled People’s Federation President Setareki Macanawai emphasized that stronger action will also require unity within the deaf community and disability movement.

He added that collective action and solidarity are important in ensuring deaf people’s rights are recognised and advanced.

“If we want the declaration of our rights as deaf people, I want to suggest two things. One is collective action. And the second thing is group solidarity, slash unity” Macanawai said.

International Week of the Deaf 2026 has now officially closed, with the focus turning to continuing the work on inclusion and accessibility beyond the week.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA