Global situation

In the majority of developing countries there is either no official system of social protection or only a weak one, and thus families function as safety nets. Families care for their disabled relatives and this engages one or even more workforces (i.e. not only the person with disabilities but also those of the carers). The UN estimates 25% of any population is directly or indirectly affected by disability (DFID, 2000, p.4).

Possible solution

In general the aim of social protection is to protect the most vulnerable and to manage any risks to society and to individuals. The UN Convention understands social protection as a means of ensuring an adequate standard of living. Therefore social protection measures include the provision of appropriate and affordable services, devices and other assistance, covering disability-related expenses or housing programmes. The World Bank has a wider understanding of social protection and suggests a range of legislative measures and expenditure programmes. These interventions address and overlap with various sectors such as labour and health. The World Bank’s Sourcebook suggests starting disability programmes such as inclusive education, sheltered workshops, technical aids, rehabilitation, disability insurance, pensions, etc.