Beyond Survival - Social Protection for Persons with Disabilities in International Human Rights Law

Social protection is essential to dignity, autonomy and equal participation for persons with disabilities. IDA’s report, Beyond Survival: Social protection for persons with disabilities in international human rights law, brings together treaty standards, international jurisprudence, Human Rights Council resolutions and United Nations guidance, drawing on 90 country and entity reviews. It examines what these standards mean for income security, disability-related expenses, benefit eligibility, employment, retirement, accessible housing and personal assistance. Its central message is clear: social protection must enable persons with disabilities to exercise their rights and participate fully in community life.

Designed for organizations of persons with disabilities, policymakers, advocates and development partners, the report provides a detailed, referenced resource for strengthening laws, policies and public budgets. It explains how international standards can support challenges to discriminatory eligibility rules, inadequate benefits, inaccessible procedures and harmful reductions in support, while carefully distinguishing the legal authority of different sources. Throughout, it emphasizes the obligation to closely consult and actively involve persons with disabilities through their representative organizations, with the resources and accessibility needed for meaningful participation. The report offers a practical foundation for advancing social protection systems that respect individual choice, address unequal access and deliver adequate support throughout life.

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