Examining the vulnerability of persons with disabilities in Myanmar pre and post-COVID-19 and military coup

Abstract

The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals include persons with disabilities in various elements related to education, employment, equality, and accessibility of human settlements. As this group constitutes a significant share of the population in Myanmar, the government recognises the importance of promoting their rights and ensuring their inclusion in the country’s development agenda. However, they often encounter social and institutional exclusions, including restricted access to basic social protection services. The COVID-19 pandemic and military coup in 2021 have further exacerbated existing precarious situations with minimal investment in welfare improvement. The objective of our study was to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and military coup on the well-being and social security of persons with disabilities in Myanmar. By analysing prevailing policy documents, our research provides recommendations for enhancing policies for persons with disabilities, particularly during periods of humanitarian crisis and ongoing conflicts in Myanmar and other countries.