World Vision actively promotes the rights and wellbeing of persons with disability
The United Nations’ International Day of People with Disability aims to promote the rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society, as well as increasing awareness of people with disabilities and the situations they encounter.
Around 650 million people worldwide live with a disability, with 80 percent living in developing countries. Unfortunately, disability often results in discrimination and marginalisation in many communities.
For many children with disabilities in developing countries, their education is not seen as a priority, given many families already have extremely limited financial resources. However, World Vision, along with many other organisations, recognises the contribution people with disabilities make to communities around the world.
To achieve this, one aspect of World Vision’s work is ensuring that disability inclusive infrastructure and mobility aids are provided for people with disabilities. Through our partnership with Motivation Charitable Trust and local health centres in Malawi, children like 12-year-old Minelesi are able to attend school instead of having to staying home.
In Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, World Vision is working with the government, community, partners and local organisations to build accessible toilets and safe water points in schools.
We also aim to create opportunities for people with disabilities – and their carers – to work and be active citizens in their community. In Sri Lanka, World Vision is working with women’s savings groups to ensure parents and carers have the financial skills and education to be able to pay for medical treatment.