By Thokozani Mazibuko
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has unveiled its 2024 “Nothing Without Us: USAID Disability Policy,” a comprehensive update to the organization’s blueprint for disability inclusion.
With the world’s population of over 1.3 billion people with disabilities, 80% of whom reside in low- and middle-income countries this policy represents a crucial step in addressing the disparities faced by individuals with disabilities across the globe.
The new policy, which responds to extensive stakeholder feedback and modern-day challenges, prioritizes the rights and representation of people with disabilities in all facets of USAID’s operations.
It proves that meaningful and intentional inclusion is not merely a goal, but an essential strategy for achieving the agency’s broader development objectives, especially considering global issues like climate change, hunger, and disease that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
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“This policy redefines our commitment to disability inclusion,” said USAID Spokesperson, Benjamin Suarato during the policy launch event. “
As we confront the pressing challenges of our time, we recognize that any lasting solution must account for and include everyone, especially those with disabilities, who have historically been sidelined.
Their voices and experiences are invaluable to our collective progress.”
The updated policy pivots towards a social and rights-based understanding of disability, aiming to dismantle the societal barriers that hinder participation.
By embedding disability inclusion across all USAID programming and interventions, the agency seeks to elevate the voices of individuals with disabilities while collaborating closely with disability-led organizations throughout every phase of project implementation.
A shift from a medical model of disability to a social and rights-based model, focusing on systemic barriers that prevent participation.
Emphasis on integrating people with disabilities in all wider programming endeavours, as well as targeted initiatives.
A commitment to partnering with disability-led organizations, ensuring that people with disabilities are involved at every stage of the program cycle.
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The policy showcases successful approaches to disability inclusion across various sectors, offering a roadmap for future initiatives.
The 2024 policy resonates with the ongoing global advocacy for the rights of people with disabilities, aligning with international frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
It also reflects USAID’s acknowledgement that effective development hinges on the inclusion of diverse voices in decision-making processes.
It should be noted that as the world is faced with complex challenges, USAID’s new Disability Policy serves as a beacon of hope for the millions of individuals with disabilities.
It emphasizes that the future of sustainable development must be built on a foundation of equality and respect for every individual, ensuring that no one is left behind.
“The 2024 Disability Policy demonstrates our firm belief that empowerment and inclusion of people with disabilities is critical to achieving a more just and equitable world,” said Spokesperson Benjamin Suarato “We look forward to collaborating with USAID to implement these principles and create lasting change.”
With the launch of this innovative policy, USAID is set to redefine how disability inclusion is approached in international development, reinforcing that meaningful change can only happen when everyone does indeed have a seat at the table.
