The problems of people with disability in Indonesia and what is being learned from the World Report on Disability

Abstract

Recent epidemiologic findings indicate that 1.8% of the Indonesian population "have extreme problems" and 19.5% "have problems" in various aspects of their ability to carry out daily activities. People with disability (PWD) have a high risk for poverty in Indonesia, and there are strong prejudices that presume unproductivity and dependency. Disability policies are integrated through a National Plan of Action. However, the existing number of human resources in the field of medical rehabilitation is still too low compared with the existing needs. This is true also for the budget for rehabilitation services. Several issues are identified that need action to improve the inclusion of PWD and to ensure their dignity including supporting a perception of PWD as active and equal citizens, assessing accurate data about the disability prevalence, strengthening organizations of PWD, building educational capacities for PWD, developing preventive strategies, and international cooperation.