This is not as surprising as it sounds. People with disabilities have consistently faced discrimination and disadvantage, which is why 82% of those with disabilities live below the poverty line and comprise one of the largest single groups of excluded and chronically poor people in the world.
This paper sets out the context for addressing disability in the MDGs. It highlights the growing international momentum for including disability in development and makes recommendations on how donors, partner governments and civil society can include people with disabilities in the global drive to achieve the MDGs.
Sightsavers has partnered with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to help make the hospitality sector accessible to everyone, with a particular focus on Africa and Asia.
Sightsavers’ Laurène Leclercq shares successes from an award-winning project in Cameroon and Senegal that’s supporting people with disabilities to participate in all aspects of political life.
The UK government’s new international women and girls strategy is a positive step. But because 18 per cent of women have a disability, it is essential that disability inclusion is prioritised.