In the months of April, May, and June 2022, the IDA DRG fellows were actively engaged in promotion of disability inclusive humanitarian actions and activities, standing as an integral part of a community of practice committed to championing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in such situations. This period was marked by collaborative events, insightful learning experiences, and an unwavering commitment to fostering positive change. Here, we share some highlights of their impactful initiatives:
Empowering Engagement
Three DRG fellows—Dulamsuren Jigjid, Mauot Luis Alier Anyang, and Mohammad Iqbal— co-facilitated the Article 11 session of the Bridge CRPD-SDGs training. While Jigjid and Iqbal were in Nepal, Mauot was in Kenya Bridge, showcasing the geographical diversity of the DRG network. Guided by a lead facilitator, the fellows honed their facilitation skills and took another step towards becoming effective advocates for disability inclusion.
Another milestone in their journey was the contribution to the UNHCR facilitation guide on disability inclusion. The three fellows recorded tutorial videos on accessibility, understanding disability, and engaging with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs). This engagement was not just a professional achievement but also a reflection of their lived experiences and expertise in this subject matter.
Further afield, Jigjid attended the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, while George met with the UN Special Rapporteur to discuss the experiences of persons with disabilities during conflicts in the MENA region. These engagements broadened their knowledge and enriched their understanding of disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction plans, programs, and implementation strategies.
Strengthening Bonds with Stakeholders
The DRG fellows' commitment to inclusion is not limited to their actions within the community but extends to fostering meaningful relationships with relevant stakeholders. Together, George and Mauot drafted an introductory session that emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between OPDs and humanitarian actors. Simultaneously, Rose worked on a concept note to organize a preliminary consultation with women with disabilities in her region. Through these proactive initiatives, the fellows have begun to grasp vital information and expand their advocacy efforts with concerned organizations.
Additionally, Rose actively communicates and pitches the DRG project to various OPDs and relevant stakeholders in the region. These include esteemed organizations like WAFOD, ADF, Malian Federation of Associations of Disabled Persons, European Cooperation in Mali, NIMUSMA, Association Élan des Personnes de Petite Taille du Burkina Faso, Association of Short People of Burkina Faso, AMPA (Malian Association for the Protection of Albinos), AMPPT (Malian Association of Small People), and AFD - MALI (French Development Agency in Mali). These efforts exemplify the DRG platform's role as a conduit for strengthening relationships between our fellows and related organizations, all with a common goal—to advocate for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in humanitarian action.
