Social Protection Systems Should be More Inclusive of Persons with Disabilities | Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD)

Catalina Devandas Aguilar, the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities told the UN General Assembly that States should make their social protection systems more inclusive for persons with disabilities, rather than pursuing models that often lock them into a cycle of dependence and poverty.

“Most countries base their social protection systems on a ‘medical approach’ to disability, she said.

Under this model, Ms. Devandas Aguilar said that persons with disabilities are seen as incapable of studying, working or living independently in the society.

“Such an approach promotes a false sense of well-being and protection,” the expert warned. “Yes, persons with disabilities get services and benefits but often at the cost of their autonomy and independence. Such approach has without any doubt resulted in more poverty, segregation, stigmatization and exclusion.”

In her report, the UN expert further argues that well-designed social protection systems are an essential tool to combat poverty and promote the independence, inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in a sustainable manner.

According to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the report provides concrete steps that States can take to ensure that their systems become more inclusive.

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