Sea levels are rising in the community that I live.
Pacific, Stories | June 25, 2024
The United Nations has labelled climate change the biggest health threat facing humanity. For 1.3 billion people with disabilities across the globe, the impacts could be devastating.
“Sea levels are rising in the community that I live. There used to be a seawall here but now there’s hardly anything left. It is slowly being eroded by the seawater,” says Anna, member of the Vanuatu Disabled People’s Association.
Vanuatu is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. More frequent cyclones and extreme rainfall means that people with disabilities and their families can no longer rely on their backyard garden to feed their family and earn an income. For them, the risk of running out of food is high.
That is why we are supporting strong women like Anna to advocate to her government for disability inclusive climate response measures.
“I want my government to include the Vanuatu Disabled People’s Association in awareness raising activities on climate change – so that the messages reach people with disabilities.”
Read The Impact of Climate Change to learn more about how CBM is responding and contributing to inclusive climate action in other parts of the world.
Image caption: Anna points to where the rising sea level has started to wash away barriers that keep communities safe.
https://www.cbm.org.au/stories/sea-levels-are-rising-in-the-community-that-i-live
Related Stories
Easy Read your way through our evaluation report
At CBM Australia, we recognise that accessibility is not optional – it is a...
Growing Stronger Together: Supporting OPDs across the Pacific
CBM Australia is proud to partner with Pacific Disability Forum on the Growing Stronger...
Frock Up For Fistula: a High Tea of hope and healing
Something very special happened this Mother’s Day weekend. CBM Ambassadors Lyn Wake and Glenys...