A Study of Inclusive Participation of Persons with Disabilities in Disaster Programming

Abstract

This study weaves together social vulnerability and intersectionality, from the lenses of a human-rights and care-justice approach, as faced by persons with disabilities in disaster programming. With an aim to understand why inclusivity in the field of disaster studies is integral for improved disaster risk reduction mechanisms. This paper stresses on the use of participatory methodological instruments. It builds on lived experiences of disabled community in the face of floods, while exploring the barriers that cause hindrance in affective preparedness and risk mitigation strategies for the flood hit population of Pakistan. It compares on going practices with international standards and obligations. This research aims to add to the disability literature in the context of Pakistan and highlight the lapse in local governmental practices that causes delayed response, resulting in greater disaster damage, and enhanced vulnerability for persons with disabilities.