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Policy Brief Issue 2 September 2018

Policy Agenda for Education of Children and Youth with Disabilities

Disability prevalence is increasing globally, especially in low income countries. In 2017, there is an estimated 7.5 billion people with disabilities or 1 in every 7 people. According to the World Report on Disability, 1 in 10 persons with disabilities are children (0-14 years) and 80% are living in developing countries. Among marginalized groups, children with disabilities remain the most excluded and discriminated. They are less likely to attend school, access medical services, or have their voices heard in society. Their disabilities also place them at a higher risk of physical abuse, and often exclude them from receiving proper nutrition or humanitarian assistance in emergencies. Girls with disabilities face a double disadvantage because they are also constrained by traditional gender roles and cultural barriers.