Inequality. Does it ring a bell? The old-age word still finds its root in most societies today.
In many societies today, especially in the developed nations, even though a lot has been done to nib the problem of inequality in bud, evidences are still being seen in other facets of life, for instance, among the educated and uneducated, the poor and the rich, Migrants and none Migrants, persons with and without disabilities. The influence of welfare states in these societies has helped to drastically or to a large extent eradicate the stratifications in society. Worst off today is what is seen in most so called developing or third world countries. In most African, Asia Pacific and Latin American countries the harsh influence of inequality among Persons living with Disability and persons without disability is enormous. This is partially due to the fact that welfares to a large extent do not exist. The United Nations recognizes the importance of … improving the living conditions of persons with disabilities in every country (UN Convention on Persons Living with Disabilities and Optional Protocol, Preamble Nr. l). The question however still remains how much is being done until today
In most African nations today it is very common to see Persons Living with Disability on the street begging for money before they can eat or drink. Most of these people have little or no access to Job opportunities and can therefore not have a normal life. There is no dignity for such persons. They are denied full participation in issues that affect the daily lives of the citizenry. The blind, persons sitting in Wheel chairs etc. are examples of people facing the hardships of having to beg before they could eat, drink or wear clothes. The barriers do not only include the hardship to work but also in daily movements including passage, vehicle etc.
Another facing persons living with disability is the high levels of religion in most of these nations. These include superstitious believes that the sicknesses are spiritual, that they are cursed, including some of them being tagged as witches or wizards. As a result they are ostracized from society or kept in enclosed areas where they cannot come out. The families feel ashamed for having them. And yet less is done by the state to protect the dignity of these people.
What are other real problems that persons with disabilities face in these nations? They deserve a hearing. Their stories need to be told. Here we offer them platform to tell their stories and be heard.
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