How disability inclusion could transform rural Bangladesh

Rural community mobilisation ensures that efforts are sustainable and reflect the lived experiences of PWDs. Photo: Unicef

In the heart of rural Satkhira, a young boy named Sami lives in a small village surrounded by the lush greenery that defines Bangladesh's countryside. Born with cerebral palsy, Sami has struggled to contribute to his family and community. 

While his peers grow up to work in the fields, he remains excluded and denied access to education, social participation, and economic opportunities. Sami's story is emblematic of the millions of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in rural Bangladesh who face systemic exclusion despite the country's development strides.

Rural Bangladesh houses approximately 63% of the population. However, PWDs in these regions confront barriers that hinder their full societal participation. 

Although PWDs constitute over 7% of the population, they remain marginalised in economic, educational, and healthcare systems. For Bangladesh to achieve sustainable development, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), disability inclusion must take centre stage.

Breaking the economic barriers for PWDs

Economic participation remains one of the most significant challenges for PWDs in rural Bangladesh. In an agrarian society heavily reliant on physical labour, individuals with disabilities often find themselves excluded from the workforce. 

A study by the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) revealed that fewer than 10% of rural PWDs have formal employment, leaving many dependent on family support.

Sami's experience mirrors this grim reality. His disability prevents him from engaging in manual labour, while the absence of vocational training curtails alternative opportunities.

Addressing these economic barriers requires targeted financial inclusion programs. Microfinance initiatives tailored to PWDs can empower them with the means to start small businesses, improve their financial stability, and reduce societal dependency.

Building inclusive infrastructure

Rural infrastructure plays a critical role in the inclusion of PWDs. Unpaved roads, inaccessible schools, and transportation systems devoid of accommodations hinder their participation in everyday activities. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the lack of disability-friendly infrastructure marginalises PWDs and deepens social exclusion.

Incorporating ramps, accessible toilets, and disability-friendly transport in public spaces can create a significant difference. Examples from neighbouring India show that inclusive infrastructure increases workforce participation among PWDs by 35%. Bangladesh must prioritise these changes to foster inclusive development.

Strengthening social protection systems

Social protection programs, such as disability allowances and subsidised healthcare, are vital lifelines for PWDs in rural areas. Yet, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), only 20% of eligible rural PWDs benefit from these programs.

Healthcare access is another pressing issue. Rural clinics and hospitals often lack the resources to cater to the needs of PWDs. 

In Gabura, Khulna, a visually impaired woman named Ayesha could not receive adequate diabetes treatment due to inaccessible healthcare facilities. Expanding coverage and improving access to these essential services would significantly enhance the well-being of PWDs.

Tackling societal stigma

Societal stigma and discrimination remain pervasive barriers to the inclusion of PWDs in rural communities. Families often hide disabled members, fearing social rejection and exclusion. This stigma not only limits opportunities but also diminishes the self-esteem of PWDs.

Community-driven awareness campaigns can challenge and change these societal attitudes. Inclusive education programs and local outreach initiatives can create environments where PWDs are valued and respected as equal members of society.

Expanding disability-inclusive education

Education remains a cornerstone for breaking cycles of exclusion. However, rural schools often lack resources to accommodate children with disabilities. Introducing inclusive education policies such as teacher training, adaptive curricula, and assistive technologies can bridge this gap.

Programmes like Brac's STAR+ initiative provide a model for integrating PWDs into mainstream education and skill development. By tailoring training methods and resources, STAR+ equips individuals like Sami with the tools to overcome barriers and achieve independence.

Mobilising communities for change

Rural communities hold the key to effective disability inclusion. Empowering local leaders, engaging community-based organisations, and fostering partnerships between government and non-governmental actors can amplify disability-focused interventions. Community mobilisation ensures that efforts are sustainable and reflect the lived experiences of PWDs.

Bangladesh's journey toward sustainable development must prioritise the inclusion of persons with disabilities. By addressing economic, infrastructural, and societal barriers, the country can unlock the potential of millions of PWDs. Programmes like STAR+ demonstrate the transformative impact of inclusive policies, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.

Achieving the SDGs requires a collective commitment to leaving no one behind. Disability inclusion is not merely a social obligation but a pathway to unlocking untapped human potential with a vision that could reshape rural Bangladesh for future generations.

Sketch: TBS

Md Al-Mamun is a researcher and social scientist at BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD), an applied social science research and teaching institute of BRAC University.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.