Our next kōrero shines a light on the systemic barriers that continue to exclude disabled people from equitable access to justice in Aotearoa. Despite some legal advances, disabled individuals still face profound challenges within a justice system that is not designed to be universally inclusive. Barriers include:
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Increased risk of crime and victimisation, disabled people are 55% more likely to experience crime, yet are less empowered to report or navigate the system.
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Court systems unprepared for disability-inclusive responses, especially for intellectual or psychosocial disabilities that require procedural accommodations.
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Lack of accessible legal aid—eligibility limits and Court reliance on loans leave many disabled people without proper representation.
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Inadequate communication support—people with learning disabilities often struggle to understand their rights and courtroom procedures.
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Exclusion from policy and legislative design, disabled people are rarely consulted, and government responses remain siloed.
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Persistent institutionalisation and historical injustices, from past systemic abuse to ongoing inaccessibility in care environments.
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Intersectional impacts on tāngata whaikaha Māori, Pacific disabled communities, and those with psychosocial disabilities.
Whether you’re a legal professional, policymaker, advocate, or disabled person interacting with the justice system, this session offers deep insights and tangible pathways for transformation. Join us to explore how we can co-design a justice system that uproots exclusion, embeds procedural accommodations, and builds genuine participation, all grounded in the social and human‑rights model of disability.
Date: Wednesday, 13 August 2025
Time: 9am to 12pm
Where: via Zoom
Master of Ceremonies: TBA
Speakers: TBA
Moderators: TBA
Attending: Anyone who wants to gain insights, share experiences, and be part of the movement toward a more equitable and inclusive justice system.
Programme: TBA
Contact: Kimberly Graham via [email protected]