Research on the closure of U.S.-funded disability inclusion programs showed that the engagement of organizations of persons with disabilities in government policy processes — including national strategies — was interrupted and ultimately lost.

Date: 6/26

Region: Global

Country: Global

Topic: Gender Equality & Inclusion, Governance & Rights

Policy Lens: Democracy & Governance

Entry Type: System Impact

Additional Context: This information comes from a report produced by Inclusive Development Partners, or IDP, a research and technical assistance organization. Using a mixed-methods design under IRB approval from the University of Massachusetts Boston, the study triangulated a global survey of staff from 82 projects across 80 implementing organizations with key informant interviews and focus group discussions across eight countries where IDP had existing programs: Bangladesh, El Salvador, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Nepal, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Data collection took place between January and March 2026.

According to IDP, despite structural constraints, organizations of persons with disabilities were using U.S.-funded projects to build institutional confidence and expand influence. This included building technical knowledge, government relationships, and community trust.

Source: Inclusive Development Partners