Disability rights
We believe everyone has the right to learn, earn and be happy, which is why we promote equal opportunities for people with visual impairments and other disabilities.
Sightsavers’ vision is of a world where everyone can access health, education and employment without fear of stigma or discrimination.
There are 800 million people with disabilities in low and middle income countries, and many of them are routinely denied basic human rights, This is why supporting people with disabilities has been a vital part of Sightsavers’ work since the organisation was founded in 1950.
We want equality for people with disabilities
Join our campaignHow we fight for disability rights
Education
Disability more than doubles a child’s chances of being out of school, locking them into a cycle of dependence. We promote inclusive, quality education so every child has the chance to go to school.
Employment
We work with local and national partners in low and middle income countries to empower people with disabilities, so they are able to earn a living, support their families and be financially independent.
Health
People with disabilities often experience poorer health than their peers, often because of discrimination and stigma. We want to make sure everyone, wherever they live, can receive quality, affordable health care.
Politics
In many countries, electoral systems aren’t inclusive, meaning people with disabilities are often excluded. We partner with local organisations to fight this discrimination and promote inclusive elections.
Read our strategies to find out more about how we work
Our strategy documentsMore on disability
Sightsavers study highlights gaps in research into disability discrimination
The study looked at interventions that have been used to tackle stigma, and highlighted gaps in the evidence base. Researchers are now calling for more effort to be put into filling these gaps.
Sightsavers calls for equity and inclusion in statement to UN disability conference
Sightsavers' video statement was delivered as part of the annual disability conference in New York. It called for disability rights to be upheld in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
UK government pledges £430m funding for education
The funding will go towards education for children in the world’s poorest countries, with a focus on girls’ education. Yet much more is needed to address the global learning crisis that has affected children worldwide.
