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Why we campaign

Many people with disabilities are denied their basic rights to participate equally in society, particularly people living in low and middle income countries.

A woman in a facemask and hat stands in a library

Around the world, there are more than one billion people with disabilities.

The vast majority live in low and middle income countries, and more than half are women. Many people with disabilities are denied access to basic human rights like education, health care, employment and political participation – and the COVID-19 pandemic has made the situation worse than ever.

The inequality experienced by people with disabilities is caused by discrimination and stigma, negative attitudes, inaccessible environments, lack of assistive equipment, and laws and policies that aren’t inclusive. But all these things can be addressed and changed.

Why do we campaign? Because we know a more equal world is possible. If we work together, we can make it a reality.

What does the campaign focus on?

Outside, a male teacher stands in front of a blackboard holding a young child. In one hand he has a stick, which he is using to teach the letters on the blackboard. A man and woman also stand around the board, watching the lesson.

Education

In low and middle income countries, children with disabilities, particularly girls, are far less likely to attend school than their peers.

Jeniffer prepares the crops outside her home.

Employment

People with disabilities often face barriers to employment and financial independence, from discrimination to inaccessible environments.

Health care

Many people with disabilities are denied access to vital health care and health information. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased this inequality.

A man from cameroon is stood side on to the camera holding crutches in both hands

Political participation

Barriers to political participation for people with disabilities can include inaccessible voting materials, lack of ID documentation and verbal abuse.

Two women stand next to each other while smiling. One of the women has her arms around the other.

Gender

Women and girls with disabilities often face both gender and disability discrimination, and many experience violence and domestic abuse.

A woman in the distance on a dusty tree lined road in Malawi

Tackling discrimination

In many of the countries where we work, attitudes towards disability are negative and based on fear, stigma or superstition.