The World Health Organization estimates that around 15 percent of the world’s population has a disability. Several million are thought to be displaced but often remain invisible within uprooted communities.
People with disabilities are not a homogenous group – they have different capacities and needs, and contribute in different ways to their communities. In times of crisis, they may be vulnerable to discrimination, exploitation and violence, and face numerous barriers to accessing humanitarian assistance.
At UNHCR, we work to ensure people living with disabilities have access to vital services and have the opportunity to apply their skills and capacities to benefit themselves, their families and communities.
We work around the clock to identify the issues they face and develop long-term solutions.
“Because I don’t have a leg, I use my bottom to help me move until I reached a refugee camp”
“They asked me to deliver a message to another armed group. During the way, I stepped on a landmine. I was very injured with blood all over for more than half a day in the middle of the forest, waiting for someone to help. When I got home and recovered, they still forced me to work even though I am disabled. I had to do whatever they forced me to do to save my life and my family. The situation was very bad and I decided to flee my home. Because I don’t have a leg, I use my bottom to help me move until I reached a refugee camp.” -No Ke- 43 years old, lost her leg from stepping on a landmine.
UNHCR’s work with refugees living with disabilities in Thailand
In 2018, 367 persons of concern living with disabilities received services in line with their specific
needs.
