Disability Meets Natural-hazard Related Disasters During Violent Conflict and Forced Migration

As of 2023, over 2 billion people are affected by violent conflict, and 108.4 million are forcibly displaced due to persecution and violence. In 2022, natural disasters triggered 32.6 million cases of internal displacement, surpassing the 28.3 million caused by conflict. However, disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts often overlook the compounded challenges faced by persons with disabilities in conflict and displacement scenarios. This chapter examines the vulnerabilities of people with disabilities during concurrent crises of conflict and natural disasters, highlighting the systemic exclusion they encounter. Individuals with disabilities face heightened risks during crises due to societal ableism, which often renders them invisible in disaster response efforts. Article 11 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities mandates protection for disabled individuals in emergencies, yet they remain marginalised in DRR initiatives, particularly in conflict-affected regions. Barriers such as inaccessible warning systems and inadequate evacuation protocols exacerbate their vulnerabilities, increasing the likelihood of death and injury during disasters. The intersection of disability, conflict, and natural disasters necessitates a reevaluation of DRR strategies to ensure inclusivity. This chapter argues for the integration of disability perspectives in DRR planning and response, emphasising the need for intersectional approaches to mitigate the risks faced by persons with disabilities in these complex crises.