Tag Archive for: Disability and Poverty

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Ability and Barriers: Disability and Poverty in Uruguay

Disability and Poverty in Uruguay In Uruguay, people with disabilities face social and economic barriers that limit their opportunities and quality of life. Despite the country’s relatively strong social safety net, poverty, unemployment and exclusion disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities. The intersection of disability and poverty in Uruguay reveals structural challenges, policy gaps and limited access to opportunities. A deeper understanding of these overlapping issues in Uruguay can help identify both the barriers and possibilities for advancing inclusion and equity.

Correlation Between Disability and Poverty in Uruguay

As of 2023, only 6.7% of Uruguay’s population lives below the international poverty line of $6.85 per person per day (2017 PPP), making it one of the countries with the lowest poverty rate in Latin America– a level that has remained relatively stable since 2014.

Uruguay’s economy experienced a 3.1% growth in 2024, fueled by strong export performance and increased private consumption, alongside strengthening the labor market and controlling inflation within the Central Bank of Uruguay’s target range. While the country enjoys its overall economic and social stability, persistent structural challenges limit progress in addressing key development divides.

Notably, poverty remains disproportionately high among children, adolescents, individuals with disabilities and individuals of the Afro-descendant background. Approximately 16% of Uruguay’s population reports living with some form of disability, totaling to 542,080 people. Along with the greater risk of poverty, these groups face heightened vulnerability in forms of discrimination and broader socioeconomic challenges.  

On the other hand, Uruguay stands out as one of the first countries in the Americas to incorporate personal assistance for individuals with disabilities into its national care system.

Personal Assistance

In 2024, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) committed to a $10 million loan and an additional $2.5 million in non-reimbursable funds to make quality care services for those with disabilities or dependency, more easily accessible. However, the Personal Assistant Program remains limited in scope and does not yet reach all those who need support to live independently.

Significant gaps persist in the availability and accessibility of services. Assistance is restricted by age, provided only to individuals aged 29 and under or 80 and over, all while being limited to a set number of hours. As a result, many people with disabilities cannot access the support necessary for daily living.

Participants in Uruguay’s Personal Assistant Program receive government aid to hire a personal assistant for no more than 80 hours per month. The amount is determined based on the severity of the individual’s disability, their level of dependency and the income of the user and immediate family.

Inadequacies

Human Rights Watch found that the 80-hour monthly limit is inadequate to meet the demands of essential daily activities. For example, if an individual was employed at a job that started at 9:00 am, but their personal assistant cannot arrive to help them prepare, they may be unable to maintain employment– an everyday consequence of the systemic challenges linking disability and poverty in Uruguay.

While the government covers the wages and social benefits for personal assistants, users are responsible for severance payments if they terminate the service after three months of use which can pose a financial burden.

Individuals who rely on personal assistants have limited options for addressing labor disputes, as labor courts are the sole mechanism for resolving such conflicts. Despite often facing financial hardship, individuals must cover their own legal expenses, while the government provides legal representation for the personal assistants. This imbalance not only places an added strain on those in need of care but also increases the potential for service issues and mistreatment without proper accountability.

Multidimensional Poverty Index in Uruguay

Nevertheless, Uruguay’s efforts to gain more knowledge about poverty and its effects does not go unnoticed. The Uruguay Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) provides a comprehensive understanding of poverty within the country. This tool distinguishes the specific regions and demographic groups most impacted by poverty, while also analyzing how multiple variables contribute to people’s overall experience of poverty. The MPI’s primary purpose is to offer strategic insights that ensure inclusive progress, aiming to reduce poverty and inequality without leaving anyone behind.

According to the multidimensional poverty headcount – which considers deprivations across education, employment, health and living standards – disability and poverty in Uruguay are closely tied. Poverty rates vary significantly based on the levels of functional difficulty. Among people with severe functional difficulties, 41% experience multidimensional poverty. This rate drops to 25% for those with moderate difficulties and just 8% for individuals without any functional limitations.

It is important to note that the MPI does not replace the traditional measurement of monetary poverty; instead, it supports them by enhancing the precision of public policies designed to combat poverty. By measuring multidimensional poverty the government can better shape strategies, policies and programs that address the diverse facets of poverty and improve support for the groups most in need.

Alongside Uruguay’s government initiatives, there are dynamic networks of organizations passionately working to combat poverty and empower people with disabilities in Uruguay. Here are some organizations addressing disability and poverty in Uruguay.

Disability Support International

The organization started in 2016, focuses on development by partnering with communities to build resilience and promote inclusion. It works to strengthen local capacity, especially for people with disabilities, aiming to create more equitable and sustainable outcomes in vulnerable areas. It now works all over the world including Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Oceania and the Americas. Through Disability Support International (DSI), Asociación Down Del Uruguay is a program that works with children and adults with down syndrome. It provides family support, vocational training, recreation and workplace opportunities in addition to promoting inclusion of people with down syndrome, advocacy and inclusive education.

Through the Labor Inclusion Program by Asociación Down Del Uruguay, about 30 people with down syndrome have permanent employment. Many people believe that individuals with Down syndrome are incapable of working or living independently. The Asociación Down Del Uruguay believes that “working and receiving fair compensation is a right and a necessity for all people, with or without disabilities.” Workforce inclusion empowers individuals with down syndrome by fostering confidence and creating spaces where their unique strengths and contributions are recognized and valued.

UNICEF

Since 1956, UNICEF has provided humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. It works to support Uruguay in making sure all children and adolescents can access quality education. A big part of its focus is on students with disabilities and teenagers in general,  helping them stay in school, do better academically and eventually graduate so they can fully participate in society and enter the workforce.

UNICEF supported the National Public Administration to expand the Return to Education Programme. This initiative partners with local communities to offer tailored support to adolescents who are at high risk of leaving school early. The success led to its integration into Uruguay’s national policy on “education trajectories,” co-funded by the government and UNICEF. As part of its efforts, it trained 500 teachers in literacy instruction, developed a Socio-Educational Support Guide and prepared 150 mentors to assist students as they navigate their educational paths.

Looking Ahead

Organizations such as the Personal Assistant Program, Asociación Down Del Uruguay and Return to Education Programme are helping to drive meaningful change by promoting inclusion, independence and equal opportunity for people with disabilities in poverty. Through the work of the Uruguayan government and organizations like these, they challenge the social and economic barriers that often trap individuals in cycles of poverty and exclusion. These initiatives demonstrate that with targeted support, inclusive policies, and community engagement, it is possible to improve the quality of life and expand opportunities for people with disabilities living in poverty in Uruguay.

– Gabriella Luneau

Gabriella is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Disability and Poverty in Grenada

Disability and Poverty in GrenadaPoverty in Grenada greatly affects those with disabilities more than those without. However, as poverty as a whole in the country is decreasing, so too are the disproportionalities, improving lives of those experiencing disability and poverty in Grenada. 

Poverty in Grenada

The citizens of Grenada, an island country in the Caribbean, have a high risk of facing poverty because of the country’s infrastructure, access to programs and aid, heavy reliance on food and oil imports and the climate they are in. Grenada is a developing country that has put more money into its industries to create more jobs and reduce its reliance on Grenada’s goods. But because they are in the hurricane belt, the destructive weather can affect these people and industries. In the early 2000s, Hurricane Ivan and Emily damaged agriculture in the rural areas.

In 2008, the poverty rate was at 37.7%, an increase from the 32% in 1998, most likely due to the hurricanes’ damage to land and businesses as people were without jobs. Meanwhile, in 2018, the rates of poverty decreased to 25%. The extreme poverty rate has been on a more significant decline, going from 12.9% in 1998, 2.4% in 2008, but unfortunately rising to 3.4% in 2018.

Tourism and Poverty

Besides agriculture, Grenada has boosted its tourism industry. Tourism contributed about 40% to the GDP. Grenada’s government improved this industry, adding in more jobs and enhancing the island’s economy. In 2014-2019, this helped decrease the rate of poverty and extreme poverty. However, in 2020, the tourism industry rapidly declined because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people were without jobs or income, and most likely fell into poverty.

The Living Conditions in Grenada Report comes directly from the World Bank Group and the Central Statistical Office of Grenada. These organizations created this report in 1998 to report poverty, equity and living conditions, as well as measure Grenada’s Consumer Price Index. The latest report is from 2018 and the next will be in 2028. Although not the most current information, it is being used for reporting, comparing and measuring Grenada’s need for aid.

Poverty and Citizens With Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities, as well as their families, have a higher susceptibility to poverty. This vulnerable group has a strained ability to uphold a job/income. In some cases, the individual’s disability prevents them from important actions like walking, which is a movement needed for agriculture and tourism. In 2021, 551 people could not walk, making their lives harder and decreasing the number of jobs they can work in.

Some children with disabilities, physical or psychological, struggle to stay in school. These issues make it harder for the student to participate and graduate. Only about 23% of children with disabilities graduate from secondary school. Lack of education leads to a lack of jobs and opportunities. The lack of income can further hurt the individual and family. There is a need to help people who live with disability and poverty in Grenada.

Care and medical treatment for certain disabilities can be expensive and could be detrimental to the household’s income. Some families cannot afford care. People with disabilities also experience exclusion. For example, Article 25 of Grenada’s Constitution from 1973 determined that a person cannot run to be a senator if they are unable to speak. Those who cannot verbally communicate cannot sit on the board, further propelling the disproportionalities.

Fighting Poverty in Grenada

The Grenadian government has signed the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure everyone is included while eradicating poverty globally and locally. The government has also enforced the Education Act in 2002, making educational programs that are specifically tailored to individuals with intellectual, communicative, behavioral and/or physical disabilities.

Along with the government, a few nonprofits have been aiding Grenada. Kingdom Workers is directly combating poverty and unemployment by hosting a few events geared towards making education more accessible, like Sensory Day. This event, hosted at the end of 2020, included crafts, toys and specific instructors teaching children with developmental disabilities on ways to communicate, boosting their motor skills.

Kingdom Workers has also provided programs that teach instructors and family members on how to take care of children with developmental disabilities. The understanding of how to treat, teach and communicate with these children further includes them in school. It provides a space where they feel comfortable while learning.

Looking Ahead

Grenada and its economy has improved from where it was in 1998 when The Living Conditions in Grenada Report first began. The overall rate of poverty and extreme poverty in Grenada has decreased. More citizens have jobs, there are more resources to improve the lives of persons with disabilities and to keep them out of poverty, and the economy is growing. Although Grenada is on its way up there is still more to be done to bring the rate down and to provide even more inclusivity, making lives better for persons experiencing disability and poverty in Grenada.

– Emily Ruggiero

Emily is based in Orefield, PA, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Disability and Poverty in Saudi Arabia

Disability and Poverty in Saudi ArabiaWhile disability and poverty are not always directly linked, people with disabilities often face challenges in many areas of life. This article will put disability and poverty in Saudi Arabia under the spotlight, while considering challenges that those with disabilities may face, such as unemployment.

In 2021, 13.6% of the population in Saudi Arabia lived in poverty. Meanwhile, back in 2010, the poverty rate among the population was 18.2%. In this drop, about 483,000 people came out of poverty in Saudi Arabia.

Disability and Poverty in Saudi Arabia

About 7.1% of the Saudi population have some form of disability. However, according to the Saudi General Authority for Statistics, about 10% of the Saudi population reported some form of disability in 2017. In addition, a study showed that about 48.6% of men with disabilities are unemployed compared to 11.5% of men who do not have disabilities. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for women with disabilities is 75.3%, while the unemployment rate for women with disabilities is 32.8%. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding how disability intersects with wider economic and social problems, such as poverty.

People with disabilities face a higher risk of falling into poverty in Saudi Arabia. In most countries around the world, disabled people often rely on the support of their family. In Saudi Arabia, another factor that can cause a person to fall into poverty is a denial of certain opportunities and/or employment opportunities. For example, someone by the name of Mariam Al-Sulami had cerebral palsy, which affected her to the point that it prevented her from attending school everyday. But due to the high motivation and her high GPA and grades, she hoped to get into medicine and dreamed of becoming a doctor. Authorities rejected her medical school application, due to deeming her “medically unfit,” so that is when she decided to take up the path of studying business administration.

Promoting Inclusivity

Saudi Arabia’s ambition toward inclusivity for people with disabilities. The first ever legislation for people with disabilities in KSA passed in 1987. According to an article by Maher S. Al-Jadid, “The LD contains important provisions that assurance persons with disabilities rights equal to those of other people in society.” Additionally, the Tawafuq program is an employment program that ensures that people with disabilities get the employment they need. The Saudi Human Resources Development Fund launched the program in 2014, which is tasked with ensuring that people are able to receive employment opportunities and the support they need. Meanwhile, the Moowaama program aims to expand the number of companies capable of employing people with disabilities. The Mowaama program encourages private companies to help people with disabilities, and to consider it their duty to the country while making their workplaces more inclusive.

The Tawafuq program has registered more than 648,000 people with disabilities with 62,728 people with disabilities being placed into employment, among many other figures that displayed increasing employment for people with disabilities. On the other hand, the Moowaama program has no public number of hires disclosed but one can see its impact by the 150 companies earning Moowaama certifications, reaffirming its efforts into creating a workspace that is disability-inclusive.

Looking Ahead

Although there are still struggles and obstacles in the way of people experiencing disability and poverty in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi government has introduced programs to ensure people with disabilities can access the tools and opportunities to thrive.

– Majida Mohamed

Majida is based in Minneapolis, MN, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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The Realities of Disability and Poverty in Honduras

Disability and Poverty in HondurasFrom the bustling capital of Tegucigalpa to the city of La Lima where Oro Lencas line the streets, the harsh realities of disability and poverty in Honduras often overshadow the warmth of home. As the second poorest country in Central America, Honduras faces staggering socioeconomic challenges. As the World Bank reported, more than 48.3% of the population lives below the poverty line. These unlivable conditions contribute directly to the growing rates of physical and cognitive impairments.

A study that the U.S. The Department of Education in Honduras did found that 82% of individuals with disabilities lived below the poverty line. These numbers emphasize the urgent need to build inclusive systems that address both equity and accessibility.

A Brief History

The Republic of Honduras, historically known as the “banana republic,” gained independence in 1821. Despite achieving sovereignty, Honduras became a dominant exporter of bananas under the influence of the United Fruit Company, which played a role in shaping the country’s geopolitics. Institutional corruption followed for decades, with government officials embezzling funds intended for health and public infrastructure.

Today, many citizens still survive on less than $1.90 a day. This entrenched poverty continues to deepen the prevalence of those disabled across the country. 

Where Disabilities Commence: Environmental Roots

Rural regions in Honduras remain among the most underserved. Poor infrastructure, unsafe drinking water and inadequate health care services contribute to the emergence of preventable disabilities. For example, chronic malnutrition–linked to stunted growth–is seen in more than 23% of children in Honduras.

Disease outbreaks also worsen existing health conditions. A study in the National Library of Medicine found that 1.6% of infants born to mothers with Zika virus developed microcephaly – a severe neurological condition– at birth. These cases reflect the systemic neglect and environmental vulnerability present across the country.

Crime, Trauma, Oppressed

An even higher rate of crime and widespread violence compounds high rates of poverty and disability in Honduras. Women and children face challenges such as sexual violence, forced gang recruitment and displacement. One woman told the Norwegian Refugee Council, “I want to live normally and in peace,” further emphasizing how those oppressed want a life free of crime and persecution within their cities.

Powerful criminal organizations like Barrio 18 hold an insurmountable amount of power, often surpassing local governance. As a result, law enforcement and legal systems are often deeply compromised. The unchecked violence especially targets vulnerable groups. Human Rights Watch reports that people with disabilities are frequently among those experiencing this cycle of abuse.

Silenced Stories: The Media’s Attention and Role

Mainstream media often overlooks these human rights crises. The reason lies in the country’s deep suppression of journalism and press freedom. Al Jazeera reports that journalists who expose state corruption face threats, physical harm and abusive legal proceedings.

This has drawn attention to former president Juan Orlando Hernandez, accused of prioritizing multinational corporations over domestic welfare. These media restrictions continue to shield injustices from international attention and allow abuses to continue unchallenged.

Resist and Rebuild

Despite ongoing challenges, Hondurans continue to resist and rebuild. The country receives one of the highest numbers of asylum seekers globally, yet remains one of the poorest.

Organizations like CUPEDO, a religious led corporation, are stepping in to change that. CUPEDO focuses on increasing access to education, health care and vocational training for people with disabilities. Its “Women in Development” program empowers women to earn an income safely, helping them avoid dangerous migration or exploitative labor. Since its launch, it has reached thousands of women in western Honduras.

While the impact of grassroot organizations is vital, they cannot resolve these issues alone. As long as corruption, diseases and poverty persist, millions of Hondurans will remain trapped in inadequate conditions with little opportunity to rise above them. International governments, NGOs and institutions must expand aid, strengthen the anti-corruption framework and protect human rights.

A Nation Worth Fighting For

As the aroma of pupusa and the melodies of Aurelio Martinez play across bustling plazas, one must remember that disability and poverty in Honduras does not solely define its people. The country holds a rich cultural heritage and resilient spirit worth celebrating and supporting. 

Addressing injustices and poverty is not merely a political responsibility; it is a human one. By amplifying marginalized voices, supporting grassroots organizations, contacting representatives and spreading awareness, one can contribute to a future where Hondurans have the opportunity to thrive with dignity and opportunity.

– Anne Isimbi

Anne is based in Albuquerque, NM, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Synonymity of Disability and Poverty in Burundi

Disability and Poverty in BurundiBurundi is a country that struggles with health care access and resources for people with disabilities. It has staggering poverty rates, with “87% of the population living below the World Bank’s poverty measure,” according to the U.S. Department of State.

Disability and Poverty in Burundi

With only 14.78% of its population living in urban areas, Burundi is the least urbanized country in Africa. As such, Burundi relies on small-scale farming to maintain its economy. This means that financial well-being is directly connected to physical ability. For many Burundians who experience limitations, this way of life makes it extremely difficult to support themselves.

While the exact metrics for Burundians with disabilities have not been adequately documented, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 10-15% of any given country’s population experiences some form of disability. Due to the country’s limited health care system, many Burundians with physical disabilities are not being adequately treated or given solutions to compensate for a lack of mobility, which makes them unable to work.

In an economy that values labor as a commodity, disability is synonymous with poverty, and the statistics support this. According to the National Library of Medicine, “68% of men and 75% of women with disability were affected by multidimensional poverty compared to 54% and 46% of their peers without disability.”

Emerging Solutions

In 2014, Burundi ratified the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Burundian Constitution was revised to include Article 22, which “reaffirms the protection and equality of everyone before the law and that no one may be subject to discrimination, including, among others, on the ground of disability.”

Legislation like this is a tremendous step in the right direction to ensure that Burundians with disabilities can dispel stigma and discrimination to open up opportunities for themselves in the workforce. Financial stability is an important component of ensuring that people with disabilities are afforded the same respect as nondisabled persons.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is also striving to improve the treatment of those with disabilities in Burundi. With a specific focus on youth, the organization makes it its mission to study how children with disabilities face social exclusion, barriers to equal education, and inaccessibility to social services. Furthermore, its strategy is to prepare the next generation to be more inclusive and understanding of their peers.

Conclusion

Efforts from both the government and organizations like UNICEF protect the rights of people living with a disability and in poverty in Burundi, while challenging the discrimination that hinders social acceptance. 

– Zoey Kartchner

Zoey is based in Tempe, AZ, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3 Facts About Disability and Poverty in Guatemala

Disability and Poverty in GuatemalaDisability and poverty in Guatemala exist as causes and consequences of each other. This is true around the world. In 2024, the World Bank reported that 57.3% of Guatemalans live in poverty and exist on an average of $6.85 per day; in 2023, approximately 80% of employed Guatemalans worked in the “informal sector” due to a lack of stable income opportunities. Guatemala also has one of the lowest labor force participation rates among females, at 33%. While solid economic growth has occurred over the last decade, serious inequalities still exist due to social standards, varying geography and the country’s vulnerability to exterior threats and natural disasters. Moreover, 10% of Guatemalans in 2021 had a disability. The United Nations Sustainable Development Group reported that despite making up one tenth of the population, persons with disabilities are often overlooked in public policy.

The Correlation Between Disability and Poverty in Guatemala

Only 15% of the 2 million Guatemalans with disabilities in 2005 earned an income. Furthermore, 66% of Guatemalans with disabilities at that time belonged to indigenous groups, disproportionately representing the indigenous citizens who only comprise 40% of Guatemala’s population. Disability and poverty in Guatemala affects the nation’s most marginalized communities.

International interest in defeating disability and poverty in Guatemala largely focuses on the nation’s unique demography. The country is home to the largest population in Central America and the largest proportion of indigenous citizens, simultaneously boasting the largest economy. With a young, emerging population and a high proportion of impoverished, disabled, and indigenous citizens, the world is fighting for Guatemala’s future. Here are three facts about disability and poverty in Guatemala.

1. Guatemala Is Fighting Poverty Fiercely

Guatemala has one of the fastest growing demographic rates in the region, with approximately 52% of the nation under 20 years of age. In part due to the country’s demographic characteristics, numerous groups are fighting poverty on the ground, like the European Commission, USAID, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, the Swedish International Development Agency and the United Nations System (like UNICEF). There is strong international interest in supporting Guatemalan security, particularly in the rule of law and development of structural economic equity across all groups.

In 2021, the United Nations Country Team in Guatemala (UNCT) sought to improve the visibility of Guatemalans with disabilities in public policy by performing an “in-depth analysis of disability inclusion.” The report highlighted how persons with disabilities in Guatemala often go unnoticed in public policy considerations. For example, UNCT discovered that data collection in the nation often excludes those with disabilities, and pledged to help solve this issue by aiding in the creation of a “national database of persons with disabilities.” It also launched a 15 day social media campaign with the tag “#YoMeSumo” before the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 2021 to focus global attention on the issue through the personal stories of Guatemalans with disabilities. Funding such efforts enables persons suffering from disability and poverty in Guatemala to become equal and active members of society.

2. WHO/PAHO Are Fighting To Include People With Disabilities

Within the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) office in Guatemala partnered with the Guatemalan Association for Persons with Disabilities (AGPD) to make national policy more inclusive. The WHO’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund funded this, disbursing relief to 40 countries in total with the aim of establishing equitable response and recovery strategies. This Fund helped establish the “National Technical Roundtable for Strengthening the Inclusion of Persons with Disability in Health Risk Management,” and the Ministry of Health of Guatemala formalized it in 2022 as Guatemala’s first permanent Health and Risk Management tool aimed at improving the health of people with disabilities.

The national defense budget requested by the United States in the FY 2020 Budget Overview report was $718.3 billion. From 2020 to 2022, WHO raised $256 million dollars from contributors for the Solidarity Response Fund, or .03% of the 2020 defense budget. Guatemala received only a fraction of that total from WHO’s Fund, significantly impacting disability rights in one country with a small portion of funding.

3. Disability Rights in Guatemala Still Need Progress

The government funding provided to Guatemala through international cooperation does not always go to people with disabilities or their families. Some funds get directed to facilities that intentionally segregate children and adults with and without disabilities. A significant portion of institutional funding, for organizations like orphanages and psychiatric facilities, is thus rendered through payments in tourism packages for volunteers. People with disabilities in Guatemala living in poverty are often left isolated as a result, with a lack of access to resources and support.

Guatemala has achieved growth in this area. The 85% of individuals in 2005 with disabilities who did not earn an income and thus lived in poverty or extreme poverty declined to around 10% in 2020-21, according to the Pan American Health Organization.

Looking Ahead

With a growing international sentiment for vulnerable populations, alongside international cooperation and stability, progress is occurring for those facing disabilities in impoverished areas. It is becoming increasingly clear that poverty cannot be solved without specifically addressing the needs of those burdened by impairment. Disability increases the likelihood of individuals sinking into poverty, and a lack of resources hinders people with disabilities from accessing health care, education, and income. Efforts are slowly addressing disability and poverty in Guatemala as one interconnected issue. 

– Shea Michael Wildes Dickson

Shea is based in Newton, MA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Disability and Poverty in Burkina Faso

Disability and Poverty in Burkina FasoIn Burkina Faso, disability and poverty are deeply intertwined. Limited access to education, health care and employment traps many people with disabilities in cycles of exclusion. Without targeted support, their potential remains overlooked and their rights are unfulfilled.

Disability in Burkina Faso is more than a personal health challenge; it is a profound development issue. In one of the world’s most impoverished nations, having a disability often means being locked out of education, employment and health care. When systems aren’t built for inclusion, the result is predictable: poverty deepens, inequality widens and national progress stalls.

Systemic Poverty and Exclusion

According to the Tigoung Nonma, a cooperative of disabled artisans, approximately 10% of Burkina Faso’s population lives with a disability. Yet most of them are invisible in public life. Due to structural barriers and social stigma, access to jobs, education and even buildings remains limited.

Not only that, but for families already surviving on less than $2 a day, caring for a disabled member without social safety nets often means sacrificing their own basic needs. Medical devices like wheelchairs or hearing aids are expensive and hard to use and accessible public infrastructure is scarce. Children with disabilities are more likely to drop out of school and adults face major hurdles in finding stable work.

Health System Gaps: Underserved and Underfunded

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Burkina Faso allocates just 6.3% of its GDP to health. This is far below the global average and far short of the need. Rural health centers are often unequipped to serve patients with specialized needs, especially those requiring physical therapy, long-term care or rehabilitation services.

Most of Burkina Faso’s more than 3,000 health facilities are inaccessible to people with mobility impairments. Similarly, a 2024 survey across French-speaking sub‑Saharan Africa revealed that Burkina Faso has only 26 physiotherapists, a staggering shortage for a needy population. For those with intellectual or developmental disabilities, the situation is even more dire. Most go undiagnosed, untreated and entirely unsupported, falling through the cracks of an already strained health care system.

Social Stigma and Discrimination

Beyond physical barriers, people with disabilities in Burkina Faso face deep social stigma. Misconceptions linking disability to witchcraft or divine punishment are still prevalent in rural areas, leading to neglect, abandonment and violence.

In employment and education, discrimination persists. Many children with disabilities are kept at home, denied enrollment in schools or bullied by peers. Adults are often excluded from the labor market entirely or relegated to informal work without legal protections.

A Vicious Cycle

Disability increases the likelihood of poverty and poverty increases the likelihood of disability. Malnutrition, unsafe childbirth, poor sanitation and lack of access to vaccinations contribute to preventable impairments in children. Meanwhile, poverty-stricken families often lack the knowledge or means to seek early intervention.

This cycle is especially damaging for women and girls, who face a double burden of gender and disability-based discrimination. They are less likely to attend school or access health care and more vulnerable to abuse.

Toward Inclusive Development

Thankfully, efforts are growing to integrate disability rights into national development plans. Burkina Faso ratified the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2009 and has committed to more inclusive policies. However, Implementation remains slow.

Nonprofits like Light for the World and Humanity & Inclusion lead some of the most impactful initiatives. These organizations have progressed in supplying assistive devices and pushing for disability-inclusive budgets. Their work shows that inclusion isn’t just possible, it’s essential for sustainable development.

Conclusion

Disability and poverty in Burkina Faso are closely linked, forming a loop of exclusion that threatens the country’s development goals. The challenge is not disability but the failure to provide accessible infrastructure, inclusive policies and equal opportunities.

Addressing this issue requires more than charity; it demands systemic change, political will and international solidarity. Only then can Burkina Faso unlock the full potential of all its citizens, regardless of ability.

– De’Marlo Gray

De’Marlo is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Invisible and Forgotten: Living With Disability in Moldova

Disability in MoldovaIn Moldova, being born with a disability can mean being locked out of education, work and even basic human dignity. As one of the most impoverished countries in Europe and a neighbor to a war-affected region (Ukraine), Moldova faces significant challenges and offers limited opportunities for its citizens. But for people living with disabilities, the barriers are not just economic; they are systemic, cultural and deeply rooted.

Despite international agreements and national policies, gaps remain in reaching the country’s most vulnerable communities. Poverty and neglect continue to isolate the disabled population, leaving them under-resourced, unheard and invisible.

Living With Disability in Moldova

An estimated 7% of Moldova’s population lives with a disability, but state support is shockingly low. Many families are left to navigate complex disabilities alone, with grandparents or single parents stepping in as full-time caregivers, without guidance, training or respite.

Disability in Moldova is not just ignored; it’s hidden. According to a 2015 report, nearly 1,716 children with mental or intellectual disabilities remain in segregated institutions and many are still denied access to mainstream education. Around 2,500 people (children and adults) with mental disabilities are forced to live in institutions, cut off from communities and basic liberties.

Additionally, between 3,000 and 4,000 individuals, mainly with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities, are stripped of legal capacity. They’re barred from basic life decisions like marriage, employment, voting and refusing medication. Many are institutionalized by guardians or withheld from community life.

Moldova’s economic crisis affects everyone, but people living with disabilities bear the brunt of it. According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), more than 25% of Moldovans live below the national poverty line, with rural areas hit the hardest. For people with disabilities and their families, this means daily decisions between medicine and meals, therapy and survival. In Moldova, disability is not just a personal challenge; it’s a systemic trap.

International Promises vs. Local Reality

Moldova has ratified the United Nations (U.N.) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). On paper, this marks a commitment to equality and accessibility. But in practice, little has changed. There is no cohesive national disability strategy, no consistent monitoring and international aid has failed to prioritize the disability crisis. Progress is sporadic and largely symbolic, leaving thousands in legal and social limbo.

However, some nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are working on the ground to support people with disabilities in Moldova. One such organization, the Tony Hawks Center, is committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children. It provides non-invasive rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy, for children aged 0 to 18.

According to the U.N., only 26% of Moldovans support the inclusion of persons with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities in the community. In response, the organization launched a broad awareness campaign aimed at increasing public acceptance and reducing stigma.

– Marina Martin

Marina is based in Rapid City, SD, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Disability and Poverty in Brunei

Disability and Poverty in BruneiDisability and poverty in Brunei is an emerging challenge despite the country’s high-income status. While Brunei provides universal health care and generous welfare programs, persons with disabilities (PWDs) continue to face systemic barriers that limit their full participation in society. The issues of limited employment, infrastructure gaps and social stigma persist yet new government and community initiatives show promise.

Disability and Poverty in Brunei: A Structural Link

According to the ASEAN Disability Forum, about 1% of Brunei’s population, roughly 4,100 people, live with a disability. Although the absolute poverty rate in Brunei is low, many PWDs face ‘relative poverty’ which relates to a lack of access to education, jobs and digital resources. A 2021 study by Universiti Brunei Darussalam revealed that PWDs face structural exclusion in both the labor market and education system, especially in rural areas. These limitations create a cycle of economic hardship that persists despite national wealth. Disability and poverty in Brunei must be understood as interconnected issues, where inclusion gaps not income levels contribute to vulnerability.

Welfare Programs and Legal Support

Brunei ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2016, marking a turning point in its legal commitment to PWD rights. Under the Welfare Assistance Act, PWDs with an “OKU card” (Orang Kelainan Upaya) are eligible for monthly financial support. As of early 2025, more than 3,800 PWDs hold the OKU card. In addition, more than 1,600 caregivers receive monthly care allowances, reflecting the government’s efforts to expand its safety net. However, challenges remain. Many PWDs struggle to find suitable jobs or gain access to inclusive education. Accessible infrastructure and digital equity also lag behind policy goals.

Recent Progress in Policy and Practice

Brunei’s 12th National Development Plan introduced “Different Abilities Design Guidelines” to make public buildings more accessible. The Ministry of Finance and Economy has pledged more than 4 billion Brunei dollars toward more than 300 national projects, including improvements in housing, education and health care.

In a 2025 New Year address, His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to leaving no one behind. He specifically emphasized the rights of persons with disabilities to live in dignity and self-reliance. Many advocacy groups, including SMARTER Brunei, an autism awareness nonprofit organization, welcomed his remarks.

In December 2024, the “Embrace Differences” campaign launched with support from public and private sectors. The initiative provides children with autism access to tablets and e-learning modules, helping bridge the digital divide in schools.

The Road Ahead

Despite these advances, more work remains. Less than 10% of working-age PWDs in Brunei are employed in the formal economy, according to the ASEAN Post. Creating inclusive hiring practices and investing in vocational training can help reduce reliance on welfare and foster economic independence.

Muhammad Hamzi, president of the Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind, explained, “The primary issue is awareness, particularly regarding the challenges PWDs face in the workplace, which includes relevant training programs.”

Education reform is equally critical. While digital learning efforts are expanding, only a few schools offer inclusive classrooms. Training teachers in disability awareness and scaling up assistive technologies could help to ensure children with disabilities are not left behind.

In underserved areas, community-based outreach through mosques, clinics and village councils can help identify and support PWDs who may not be registered for official aid. These local efforts can also reduce stigma and raise public understanding.

– Charlie Wood

Charlie is based in Liversedge, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Inclusive Education: Confronting Disability and Poverty in Bhutan

Disability and Poverty in BhutanBhutan is a country with a unique culture and traditions. It is the only South Asian country that has a Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of collective happiness and well-being over economic growth in the nation. This index is based on four pillars including sustainable socio-economic development, cultural preservation, environmental preservation and good governance, which help measure the quality of life and happiness of citizens.

Despite the importance given to GNH, the country faces a number of challenges with respect to poverty including access to education and basic resources, access to health care and social support. These factors disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in the country, especially children with disabilities. However, recent developments in regional and national policies and legislation aimed at addressing disability and poverty in Bhutan have resulted in positive changes in these areas. 

The Correlation Between Disability and Poverty in Bhutan

The Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) report (2018) indicated that people with disabilities experienced significantly higher levels of multidimensional poverty in Bhutan. It suggested that the multidimensional poverty rate of people was at a stark 11.1%, as compared to people without disabilities (5.6%). A 2022 report revealed that systematic barriers to education, vocational training and employment particularly affecting children and youth with disabilities reinforces the connection between disability and poverty in Bhutan. It further emphasized the role of Bhutanese social norms, like “Karuna” (compassion) and “Karma,” in perpetuating social and economic exclusions experienced by the disabled population especially.

The intersection of lack of coordination, funding for initiatives and targeted support were identified as both the cause and consequence of poverty in Bhutan. Another study noted a higher degree of prevalence of disabilities amongst poor children and those of mothers with lower levels of education. While this analysis does not paint a rosy picture regarding the intersection of disability and poverty in Bhutan, it acts as an entry point for change, grounded into local social institutions and realistic implementation, offering a roadmap to the policymakers for actionable goals—an approach that is already beginning to show tangible progress.

Disability and Education in Bhutan

In 2024, Kesang Chuki Dorjee, Chairperson of the Social and Cultural Affairs Committee (SCAC) presented a report titled “Review Report on the State of Persons with Disabilities.” In the report, Dorjee indicated how between the 12th and 13th Five-year plans, the government’s allocation towards educational activities for children with disabilities saw a rise from approximately Nu 87 million to Nu 1.115 billion.

The 2024 report estimated that 1,071 children with disabilities were attending in schools in a nationwide capacity. Bhutan has established three early childhood intervention centers offering services including communication skills, socialization behavior management, school readiness and other vocational training, like cooking, weaving tailoring and so on. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Bhutan has made important strides in implementing these inclusive strategies and policies for educating children with disabilities.

Education is an important aspect in the intersection of disability and poverty in Bhutan. The fact is that education is a critical point of intervention as it directly tackles the root cause of marginalization. As the abovementioned data suggests, children with disabilities are especially more likely to experience discrimination in mainstream educational settings. Ensuring that all children can participate in quality education regardless of ability can help build a stronger economic future for all, along with promoting equity. In Bhutan, where educational attainment has close links with future livelihoods, inclusive educational policies have become a key tool in breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty, promoting social inclusion and fulfilling the country’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy of collective well-being and equity.

Looking Ahead

Despite many challenges stemming from the link between disability and poverty with respect to children in Bhutan, the momentum for change has been set into motion. The significant increase in government investment, along with inclusive educational initiatives, reflects a national commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind. As Bhutan continues incorporating principles of Gross National Happiness into its policies, the government and stakeholders are working to ensure that children with disabilities living in poverty, not only gain access to equitable education but also have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society. Though the journey may be long, the actions taken today are laying a strong foundation for a more inclusive and equitable Bhutan in the future.

– Vasudhaa Shakdher

Vasudhaa is based in Vancouver, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash