It is evident that the implied inclusion of persons with disabilities in the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) has not resulted in their inclusion in development activities; for example, only an estimated 3-4 per cent of persons with disabilities are believed to benefit from international aid programs (AusAid, 2011). Not only have persons with disabilities not benefitted from much of the progress brought about by the MDG, but their living standards may have been declining in relative terms (UN, 2010).
This paper argues that the absence of specific reference to disability in the MDGs has resulted in the increased marginalisation of persons with disabilities and is contributing towards growing inequalities that are slowing progress at sub-national levels (UNDESA, 2012).
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.