IDPWD - International Day of People With Disabilites!

To raise awareness of the International Day Of People With Disabilities I thought it might be interesting to start a discussion on what the definition of 'disability' is thought of across the world. Each country seems to have their own definition.

So, what do you think?

What does your country think?

Do you agree or disagree?

How does it make you feel? Happy? Annoyed? Upset? Hopeful?

Share with us!

The definition of "disability" varies across countries and cultures, reflecting diverse legal, social, and cultural frameworks. Below are some perspectives on how disability is understood and defined in different contexts:

1. International Definition

• United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD): The CRPD defines disability as including "long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others." This definition emphasizes a social model of disability, focusing on the interaction between impairments and societal barriers.

2. Western Countries

• United States: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a disability is defined as "a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities." This definition blends the medical model (focus on individual impairments) and the social model (consideration of barriers).

• European Union (EU): In the EU, disability is often viewed through the social model, but definitions vary by country. For example:

  • In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 defines disability as "a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on a person's ability to do normal daily activities." 

  • In Germany, definitions often align with the social insurance model, emphasizing medical diagnoses in relation to work capability.

3. Non-Western Countries

• China: Disability is defined primarily through the medical model and is regulated by the Law on the Protection of Disabled Persons. It includes physical, intellectual, and sensory impairments but often focuses on the functionality of individuals in specific roles.

• India: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 defines disability broadly, listing 21 conditions, including mental illness and specific learning disabilities. It adopts a mix of the social and medical models, aiming for inclusivity.

4. Indigenous and Traditional Cultures

• In some indigenous cultures, disability may not be viewed as an impairment but as a unique difference or even a spiritual condition.

  • Native American tribes sometimes regard disability as a natural variation within the community, not stigmatized.

  • In African contexts, cultural views on disability vary widely. Some communities see it as a consequence of spiritual or ancestral factors, while others interpret it as a natural part of human diversity.

5. Sociocultural Dimensions

• Japan: Disability is defined through both medical and societal frameworks. Social perceptions are influenced by traditional beliefs such as "gaman" (perseverance), leading to a focus on overcoming barriers rather than accommodations.

• Middle Eastern Countries: Islamic traditions often emphasize community responsibility and care for individuals with disabilities. Definitions of disability are shaped by religious principles and the medical model.

Summary

While there is increasing global alignment towards the social model of disability (as promoted by the CRPD), interpretations remain influenced by local legal systems, cultural norms, and historical contexts. These differences underscore the importance of understanding disability within specific cultural and regional frameworks to ensure effective policies and inclusive practices.

https://idpwd.org/ 

Written as part of the Disability Support Community Articles. More infoposts can be found 

If you have a condition or 'Awareness Campaign' that you feel we should recognise please message  @MistyMagic (teens and adults) or @AffyAvo (adults)