The Health and Social Committee of the Shura Council convened today (Monday) with members of the Oman Association for Children with Disabilities and the Omani Autism Society as part of its ongoing deliberations on the draft Law on Disability Rights referred by the government.

During the meeting with representatives from the Oman Association for Children with Disabilities, the committee reviewed several provisions of the proposed legislation. The association shared insights and recommendations on critical aspects, including comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis for individuals with disabilities, the role of its rehabilitation centers, inclusion programs, counseling facilities, and matters concerning early intervention and non-discrimination policies.
Similarly, the committee engaged with experts from the Omani Autism Society to gather their perspectives on the draft law. Discussions focused on the characteristics and diagnosis of autism, the association's contributions in addressing the condition, and provisions in the law related to psychological support.
The draft law, aimed at replacing the current legislation, underscores Oman's commitment to human rights and its efforts to achieve comprehensive social development that encompasses all segments of society, including persons with disabilities.
The committee's deliberation aligns with Article (49) of the Oman Council Law, which mandates that draft laws referred by the Council of Ministers to the Shura Council must be decided upon—either approved or amended—within three months of referral. Subsequently, the draft must be forwarded to the State Council, which has 45 days to conclude its review.
The meeting, chaired by H.E. Mansour  Zahir Al-Hajri, Chairman of the Health and Social Committee, was held as part of the committee's third meeting during the second annual session (2023–2024) of the tenth term (2024–2027).