Persons with disabilities

Persons with disabilities face particular challenges around mobility, employment and disaster recovery. The roundtable will give PWD a voice and allow participants to highlight their priorities in cities. It will also foster collaboration between partners and demonstrate best practice for inclusive urban policies and programmes.

Currently, persons with disabilities (PWD) make up 15% of the global population. However, this is not reflected in representation in urban governance and planning, nor in policies and programmes in cities. PWD face many challenges in accessing equal opportunities, and many of these are particularly relevant in cities
PWD represent a huge potential labour force, but often face barriers in gaining employment. Many employment opportunities are unavailable to PWD, despite laws and policies that are designed to ensure equal access to employment. This employment gap is particularly evident in cities, where there are the most employment opportunities and the most PWD. Improving access to employment will not only improve outcomes for PWD, but boost local economies in cities.

In post-disaster contexts, PWD face particular challenges to accessing information, part-taking in reconstruction efforts and having a voice in decision-making. Despite representing a significant proportion of the population, PWD are often ‘left behind’ in disaster contexts. Similarly, disaster risk reduction and response is often not inclusive, despite the significant positive role that PWD can play.

Mobility is vital for everybody to access healthcare, education, employment and basic services. However, access to public transport is challenging and often more expensive for PWD. Public transport stops tend to be too far apart for mobility purposes, and are often inaccessible, whilst access to cars is more difficult, with many being excluded from driving licences. Similarly, access to Taxis is also more challenging due to accessibility of vehicles and affordability. As such, PWD have limited access to the benefits of urbanization.

Q1: What are the top 3 priorities for PWD in cities?

Q2: How can local authorities ensure equal access to employment for PWD?

Q3: How can PWD engage in post-disaster planning and recovery?

Q4: How can all actors improve data relating to PWD?