The World Report on Disability, published jointly by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank in 2011, offers a comprehensive global overview of the status of people with disabilities. It highlights that over one billion individuals—approximately 15% of the world’s population—live with some form of disability, with 110–190 million experiencing significant difficulties in functioning.
The report underscores the myriad barriers faced by persons with disabilities, including limited access to health care, education, employment, and social participation. These challenges are often exacerbated by stigma, discrimination, and inadequate policies. To address these issues, the report presents nine key recommendations, such as enabling access to all mainstream services, investing in specific programs for people with disabilities, adopting national disability strategies, and involving people with disabilities in decision-making processes.
Serving as a foundational resource, the report aims to guide policymakers, service providers, and advocates in implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and fostering inclusive development worldwide.
