Volume 12, Issue 2 (Winter- In Press 2027)
Health in Emergencies and Disasters Quarterly 2027, 12(2): 0-0 |
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Pakjouei S. Transforming Inclusion into Action: A Participatory Framework for Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction. Health in Emergencies and Disasters Quarterly 2027; 12 (2)
URL: http://hdq.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-816-en.html
URL: http://hdq.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-816-en.html
Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran , sh_pakjouei@yahoo.com
Abstract: (1054 Views)
Background: Persons with disabilities face disproportionately higher risks of injury, death, and exclusion during disasters. Despite global commitments to inclusion, current disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies often remain top-down, overlooking the vital expertise and specific needs of disabled individuals.
Objective: This policy brief examines the gap between inclusive rhetoric and practical implementation in DRR. It advocates for a systematic shift toward participatory co-design as the most effective approach to safeguarding the rights and safety of persons with disabilities in emergencies.
Methods: Drawing on recent empirical studies and evidence from disaster contexts, this brief analyzes the limitations of non-consultative planning, untrained responders, and standardized aid. It introduces a participatory framework that positions persons with disabilities as essential partners in DRR planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Results: Evidence confirms that meaningful involvement of Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) leads to more accessible, context-sensitive, and sustainable DRR interventions. Without this engagement, policies and practices risk being ineffective or even harmful.
Conclusion: We propose three actionable recommendations: institutionalize DPO representation in DRR governance; fund co-developed training programs for emergency responders; and enforce co-created accessibility standards. Integrating lived experience is not merely an ethical obligation—it is a strategic necessity to build equitable, effective, and resilient disaster management systems.
Objective: This policy brief examines the gap between inclusive rhetoric and practical implementation in DRR. It advocates for a systematic shift toward participatory co-design as the most effective approach to safeguarding the rights and safety of persons with disabilities in emergencies.
Methods: Drawing on recent empirical studies and evidence from disaster contexts, this brief analyzes the limitations of non-consultative planning, untrained responders, and standardized aid. It introduces a participatory framework that positions persons with disabilities as essential partners in DRR planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Results: Evidence confirms that meaningful involvement of Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) leads to more accessible, context-sensitive, and sustainable DRR interventions. Without this engagement, policies and practices risk being ineffective or even harmful.
Conclusion: We propose three actionable recommendations: institutionalize DPO representation in DRR governance; fund co-developed training programs for emergency responders; and enforce co-created accessibility standards. Integrating lived experience is not merely an ethical obligation—it is a strategic necessity to build equitable, effective, and resilient disaster management systems.
Keywords: Disasters, disaster risk reduction, Earthquakes, Iran, Participation, People with disabilities
Type of article: policy brief |
Subject:
Emergency
Received: 2025/11/18 | Accepted: 2026/05/3 | Published: 2027/01/10
Received: 2025/11/18 | Accepted: 2026/05/3 | Published: 2027/01/10
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This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 (CC-By-NC 4.0), which permits use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
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This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 (CC-By-NC 4.0), which permits use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
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