THE NEED

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are over 200 million children with disabilities growing up in developing countries.

95% of these children will never receive an education or the support services they need. This means that such children are incapacitated by their disability. Social prejudices create another barrier. In countries where there is no social safety net and where the entire family must exert themselves in order to survive, a child with a disability is often seen as a burden. Of course, most parents adore their children and they are doing their very best, but without the knowledge, tools and support required to promote the well-being of their children, their efforts are often frustrated. As a result of these and other factors, such children often suffer grave human rights violations on a daily basis. Some rarely leave their home and many don't survive until adulthood. These things need to change - now.

The most important reason to help children with disabilities is simply because they are children. They’re kids like other kids - with likes and dislikes, giggle fits and temper tantrums, and with the same rights and needs as all other children. They have the right to grow and develop to their full potential, to play an active role in their future and in their communities, and to live with dignity and respect. And, we can all be advocates and allies, and support them in achieving their rights.