In all wars and disasters, people with disabilities are the first to die; people with disabilities are the first to get sick; and people with disabilities are the last to access resources and medicines when they are delivered…

Often invisible, often forgotten and overlooked… Refugees with disabilities are among the most isolated, socially excluded and marginalized within refugee communities. The way we design and build a community can be a barrier to their access to vital services; the way food rations are distributed, sometimes without taking into account their special needs, can affect their health and safety; the way they are isolated and excluded from vocational training and income generation programs reinforces the view that they are helpless and not independent; and when we do not actively encourage their participation in community or camp leadership, we give the impression that they are less capable…

Refugees with disabilities possess valuable skills, knowledge and experience, and they want and deserve the opportunity to use them. They want accessibility and equal opportunities. They need social inclusion and full participation. They have the right to access mainstream and available services, including vital basic services. Like all of us, they want to actively contribute to their communities and have a meaningful life…

Let’s ensure better protection, participation and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. And let’s stop erecting and start dismantling those barriers that limit their access and potential.