Disability in Yemen

Human Rights Watch says nearly 6000 people have been disabled since the Saudi-led coalition began airstrikes nine months ago

Disability in Yemen

Disability in Yemen is a significant issue, affecting a considerable portion of the population. The challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Yemen are compounded by ongoing conflict, economic instability, and limited access to healthcare and social services.

Prevalence

The exact prevalence of disability in Yemen is difficult to determine due to the lack of comprehensive data. However, it is estimated that a significant percentage of the population lives with some form of disability. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that the prevalence of disability in conflict-affected areas tends to be higher due to injuries and inadequate medical care.

Types of Disabilities

Disabilities in Yemen can be categorized into several types, including:

• Physical disabilities
• Sensory disabilities (such as blindness and deafness)
• Intellectual disabilities
• Mental health conditions

Causes

The causes of disabilities in Yemen are varied and include:

• Congenital conditions
• Infectious diseases
• Malnutrition
• Injuries from the ongoing conflict
• Lack of access to adequate healthcare

Challenges

Individuals with disabilities in Yemen face numerous challenges, including:

• Limited access to education
• Inadequate healthcare services
• Social stigma and discrimination
• Unemployment and economic hardship
• Lack of accessibility in public spaces and transportation

Government and Non-Governmental Organizations

The Yemeni government, along with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs), has made efforts to address the needs of people with disabilities. However, these efforts are often hampered by the ongoing conflict and limited resources.

Legislation

Yemen has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which aims to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Despite this, the implementation of disability rights legislation remains weak due to the country's political and economic instability.

International Support

International organizations, including the United Nations and various humanitarian agencies, provide support to people with disabilities in Yemen. This support includes medical aid, rehabilitation services, and advocacy for disability rights.

See also

• Healthcare in Yemen
• Human rights in Yemen
• Yemeni Civil War (2014–present)
• World Health Organization