On the occasion of the International Day of Sign Language, the Arab Women's Training and Research Center "Kawthar" has called for a comprehensive national dialogue in Tunisia to promote the integration of deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The center's policy paper, prepared in partnership with the Tunisian Association of the Deaf, aims to develop a national strategy to coordinate efforts and promote the use of sign language. The paper emphasizes the need for a national dialogue involving various government ministries, civil society organizations, media outlets, and individuals with hearing impairments.
The policy paper recommends establishing a national working group to develop a clear public policy to promote sign language and recognize its role in enhancing the integration of deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The group would be responsible for organizing conferences, workshops, and awareness campaigns to bring together various stakeholders. Additionally, the paper suggests supporting the development of sign language training programs, producing specialized dictionaries, and establishing a system for training and certifying sign language interpreters.
The center's paper also highlights the importance of updating educational tools and techniques, as well as promoting international cooperation and providing incentives for teachers and trainers, particularly those with hearing impairments. Furthermore, the paper recommends expanding sign language training programs to include professionals who interact directly with the public, such as doctors, lawyers, and service providers for victims of violence.
In terms of employment, the paper calls for diversifying job opportunities for graduates of sign language programs and aligning training with labor market needs. The center also emphasizes the need to strengthen partnerships with economic institutions and organizations to promote the integration of deaf and hard of hearing individuals into the workforce.
According to estimates from civil society organizations, there are between 18,000 and 30,000 deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Tunisia. Despite the establishment of a sign language program at the University of Tunis in 2003, only around 300 graduates have been produced, with many facing limited job prospects or choosing to emigrate or change careers.
The policy paper also highlights the specific challenges faced by women and girls with hearing impairments, including the risk of gender-based violence and limited access to care and guidance services. The center's authors believe that implementing these recommendations and launching a national dialogue will help Tunisia fulfill its constitutional and international commitments to the rights of individuals with disabilities.
The International Day of Sign Language is celebrated annually on September 23, as proclaimed by the United Nations in 2017. The day is part of the International Week of the Deaf, which has been observed since 1958. By marking this day, Tunisia has the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to promoting the rights and integration of deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
Key points
- Center urges comprehensive national dialogue to promote integration of deaf and hard of hearing individuals
- Policy paper recommends establishing national working group to develop clear public policy on sign language
- Tunisia has around 18,000 to 30,000 deaf and hard of hearing individuals, with limited job prospects for sign language graduates
