Health in Emergencies and Disasters Quarterly

en Transforming Inclusion into Action: A Participatory Framework for Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction اورژانس Emergency خلاصه سیاستی policy brief <div style="text-align: justify;">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.</div> Disasters, disaster risk reduction, Earthquakes, Iran, Participation, People with disabilities 0 0 http://hdq.uswr.ac.ir/browse.php?a_code=A-10-325-1&slc_lang=en&sid=1 Shahrzad Pakjouei sh_pakjouei@yahoo.com Yes Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran