Insights into the Assistive Products Demand Landscape.

Insights into the Assistive Products Demand Landscape. Date: 2 July 2025, Time: 12:00 CEST Join us for the second webinar in the Discussion Series on Market Shaping in the Assistive Technology Sector. The sector faces multiple challenges including informational asymmetry, fragmented demand, high prices, limited supplier competition and high barriers to market entry. The challenges are deeper in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).The discussion series focuses on demystifying the different facets of market barriers to foster cross-sectoral learning and collaboration toward building healthy and sustainable assistive product markets, particularly in LMICs. Episode 2 will explore the demand landscape for assistive products - the significant unmet needs, cost drivers and China’s supplier landscape, and present actionable strategies to improve AT access in low- and middle-income countries.  The webinar coincides with the launch of the Assistive Products Market Report 2025, co-developed by ATscale and CHAI, which builds upon the 2024 report, focused on products and suppliers.  The webinar will be held in English, French and Chinese. We are very excited to welcome the following speakers: · Megan Davis-Ferguson, South Africa Ministry of Health · Zhang Hongtao, China Assistive Devices and Technology Center (CADTC) · Domitille Harb, Hear the World Foundation · Colman Ndetembea, Kyaro Assistive Tech  · Shitaye Astawes, African Disability Forum  Register for the webinar    Policy Brief on Assistive Technology (AT) and Employment  Date: 9 July 2025, Time: 12:00 CEST Join us on 9 July 2025 to hear findings and recommendations from the recently published policy brief on assistive technology and employment.  Published in partnership with ILO, the brief highlights the crucial role of Assistive Technology (AT) in expanding employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and other AT users in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).  Speakers in the webinar will share recommendations for specific actions that various stakeholders (governments, employers, AT companies, organizations of persons with disabilities, industry associations and networks, and development partners) can take to strengthen the AT ecosystem.   Learn more about the brief and download the report  Register for the webinar

 

ATscale, hosted by UNOPS ATscale, Chem. des Anémones 11, 1219 Chatelaine, Switzerland

 

 

 

  

Video: Physical Accessibility and Urban Development in Japan

Physical Accessibility and Urban Development in Japan

A newly released JICA video examines the transformative changes brought about by the disability rights movement in Japan, particularly in improving physical accessibility and shaping urban development. It emphasizes JICA's collaborative efforts and crucial initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive development.

News: Mocking Wheelchair in USA Sparks Criticism

 

Mocking Wheelchair in USA Sparks Criticism

The controversy surrounding Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett intensified after her appearance at the Human Rights Campaign's annual dinner in Los Angeles.   During her speech, Crockett referred to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair due to a past accident, as "Governor Hot Wheels." This comment immediately drew sharp criticism, with many interpreting it as a direct mockery of the governor's disability.  

The incident unfolded during a 21-minute speech where, about four and a half minutes in, Crockett addressed her home state.  "We in these hot a** Texas streets, honey," she began, before adding, "Y'all know we got Governor Hot Wheels down there, c'mon now." "The only thing hot about him is that he is a hot a** mess." The crowd responded with laughter and applause, and Crockett briefly joked about deviating from her prepared remarks.

The backlash was swift and severe.    Critics, including figures like Turning Point CEO Charlie Kirk, condemned her words. "Jasmine Crockett continues to embarrass herself, the state of Texas, and the U.S. Congress," Kirk stated on X, highlighting Abbott's paralysis from a 1984 accident. Libs of TikTok echoed this sentiment, calling the comment "sickening".

In response to the mounting criticism, Crockett took to X, attempting to clarify her remarks.  "I wasn't thinking about the governor's condition—I was thinking about the planes, trains, and automobiles he used to transfer migrants into communities led by Black mayors, deliberately stoking tension and fear among the most vulnerable," she explained.  "Literally, the next line I said was that he was a 'Hot A** Mess,' referencing his terrible policies. At no point did I mention or allude to his condition."

Crockett further pointed out the perceived hypocrisy of her critics, noting that those who support figures known for mocking disabilities were now expressing outrage. She drew a direct parallel to past actions, "So, I'm even more appalled that the very people who unequivocally support Trump—a man known for racially insensitive nicknames and mocking those with disabilities—are now outraged.”

The National Republican Congressional Committee also weighed in, with press secretary Mike Marinella stating, "Jasmine Crockett is the perfect spokesperson for today's Democrats: out of touch and completely unhinged." "When you've got no message and no agenda, all that's left is hate."

Source:
NewsWeek & Texastribune

 

Empowering the Consumers

 

Empowering the Consumers

World Consumer Rights Day, observed annually on March 15th, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about consumer rights and needs. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's landmark speech to the US Congress in 1962, where he outlined the fundamental consumer rights, this day has become a crucial catalyst for promoting fair, safe, and transparent marketplaces worldwide. This article delves into the background, importance, and legal framework of consumer rights, with a specific focus on Pakistan, including the challenges faced by consumers with disabilities. President Kennedy's address articulated four basic consumer rights: the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, and the right to be heard. These principles laid the foundation for the global consumer movement. In 1983, Consumers International, a global federation of consumer organizations, established World Consumer Rights Day to mobilize action and advocate for consumer protection.

Consumers Rights Protection Day educates consumers about their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to make informed decisions. It provides a platform for consumer organizations to advocate for stronger consumer protection laws and policies and It encourages businesses to adopt ethical and transparent practices, fostering trust and fairness in the marketplace.

In today's complex and interconnected marketplace, consumer rights are more critical than ever. Consumers are faced with a vast array of products and services, often with intricate terms and conditions. Without adequate protection, they are vulnerable to exploitation, fraud, and unsafe products. Strong legislation prevents anti-competitive practices, such as monopolies and price fixing, which harm consumers. Such laws establish safety standards and mechanisms for recalling defective products and require businesses to provide clear and accurate information about their products and services.

Pakistan has made significant strides in strengthening its consumer protection framework. The primary legislation governing consumer rights is the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), enacted by various provinces:

• Islamabad Consumer Protection Act, 1995: This act protects consumers within the Islamabad Capital Territory. 
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Consumer Protection Act, 1997: This act focuses on consumer protection within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. 
• Balochistan Consumer Protection Act, 2003: This law addresses consumer rights within the Balochistan province. 
• Punjab Consumer Protection Act, 2005: This act aims to protect consumers in the Punjab province. 
• Sindh Consumer Protection Act, 2007: This law is specifically designed to safeguard consumer interests within the Sindh province. 
• Sindh Consumer Protection Bill, 2015: This bill, passed in 2015, further strengthens consumer protection measures in Sindh.

The Consumer Protection Acts (CPA) in Pakistan lay out several key provisions designed to safeguard consumer interests. These include the establishment of Consumer Protection Councils and Courts, tasked with promoting awareness, investigating complaints, and adjudicating disputes; a clear definition of consumer rights, encompassing safety, information, choice, and redress; a prohibition of unfair trade practices, such as deceptive advertising and misleading labeling; the imposition of product liability on manufacturers and sellers for defective or unsafe goods; and the imposition of service liability on service providers for deficient services.

Despite the establishment of consumer protection laws in Pakistan, their effective implementation faces significant hurdles, including widespread lack of awareness among consumers about their rights and redress mechanisms, weak enforcement due to limited resources and capacity, bureaucratic obstacles hindering complaint filing and redress seeking, confusion and inconsistency arising from provincial disparities in laws, and the absence of standardized procedures across consumer courts and councils.

Consumer Protection Councils play a vital role in promoting consumer awareness and protecting consumer rights. Consumer Protection Councils in Pakistan, operating at both provincial and district levels, serve as vital hubs for safeguarding consumer interests. Their multifaceted role encompasses educating the public about their rights and responsibilities, diligently investigating consumer complaints, facilitating mediation between consumers and businesses to resolve disputes, conducting thorough research on prevailing consumer issues, and providing informed advice to the government on the formulation and implementation of effective consumer protection policies. However, these councils often face challenges such as limited funding, staffing shortages, and a lack of public awareness.

Consumers with disabilities often face unique challenges in accessing goods and services. Consumers with disabilities encounter significant obstacles in accessing goods and services, stemming from a confluence of physical, communication, and attitudinal barriers. Physical barriers, such as inaccessible buildings, websites, and products, limit their ability to physically navigate and utilize resources. Communication barriers, like the absence of sign language interpretation or braille materials, impede effective interaction with businesses. Discriminatory practices, including outright refusal of service or denial of reasonable accommodations, further marginalize these consumers. Compounding these issues is the lack of accessible information, where inaccessible websites and product details hinder informed purchasing decisions, ultimately restricting their choices and full participation in the marketplace.

To dismantle the barriers fto consumers with disabilities, a multi-pronged approach is essential. Businesses must prioritize accessibility by ensuring their premises, websites, and products are designed for inclusivity. They should provide information in diverse, accessible formats like braille, large print, and audio, catering to varying needs. Crucially, staff training is vital, equipping employees to deliver courteous and respectful service, fostering a welcoming environment. Simultaneously, governments must champion inclusive policies that guarantee equal access to goods and services for all. Furthermore, empowering consumer choice is paramount; this translates to offering diverse options, such as website accessibility features for visual impairments, easily navigable physical store layouts, and staff trained to assist individuals with physical disabilities, ensuring that consumers with disabilities have both access and agency.

To bolster consumer protection in Pakistan, a strategic and comprehensive approach is required. Firstly, extensive public awareness campaigns are crucial to educate citizens about their rights and the established redress mechanisms. Secondly, strengthening enforcement capabilities through increased resources and capacity building for consumer protection agencies is vital for effective implementation of existing laws. Thirdly, improved coordination between provincial and federal agencies will streamline operations and ensure consistency. Fourthly, promoting digital literacy is essential to safeguard consumers from the growing threat of online scams and fraud. Fifthly, tailored attention must be given to the needs of vulnerable consumer groups, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and other marginalized populations. Finally, standardizing provincial consumer protection laws and procedures will eliminate inconsistencies and create a uniform, effective framework across the nation. World Consumer Rights Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting consumer rights and promoting fair and transparent marketplaces. By strengthening our consumer protection framework, we can empower consumers and build a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

International Women's Day 2025

 

International Women's Day 2025

Every year, on March 8th, the world celebrates International Women's Day (IWD), a day dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of women and advocating for gender equality. The theme for International Women's Day 2025 is "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," which is itself meaningful.

International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th century, when women around the world began organizing and demanding equal rights. Since its first official celebration in 1911, IWD has grown into a global movement that continues to inspire change and progress with the slogan "We can do.".

Women have made remarkable strides across various fields. From pioneering scientists like Marie Curie to trailblazing leaders like Margaret Thatcher, women have reshaped our world. In recent years, figures such as Malala Yousafzai, Kamala Harris, and Greta Thunberg have emerged as powerful advocates for education, representation, and climate action. Their achievements highlight the strength and resilience of women everywhere. Women with disabilities also played their roles, like Hellen Keller, Dr. Fatima Shah, Judy Heumann, Rhonda Graham & Arunima Sinha, Frida Kahlo, and Jessica Cox. There is a long list of successful women with disabilities in the world.

Despite significant progress, many challenges remain. Women continue to face disparities in pay, access to education, and representation in leadership roles. Gender-based violence affects millions of women globally. Addressing these issues requires collective effort and commitment from individuals, organizations, and governments.

In countries like Pakistan, girls and women with disabilities face triple discrimination: being women, facing religious misinterpretation about women in Islam, and contending with cultural norms of South Asia. This intersectionality of gender, disability, and cultural barriers creates a particularly challenging environment for women with disabilities. They often experience exclusion from educational opportunities, limited access to healthcare, and restricted participation in economic activities.

Women with disabilities are often overlooked in mainstream gender movements. Despite the efforts of many advocates, their voices are frequently marginalized, and their specific needs are not adequately addressed. This year's theme, "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," serves as a powerful reminder that the inclusion of women with disabilities within the gender movement and beyond is essential. It calls for a comprehensive approach to gender equality that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities. The inclusion of women with disabilities is not just a matter of justice but a necessity for achieving true gender equality. This International Women's Day, let us commit to raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities and ensuring their voices are heard. By doing so, we can create a world where every woman, regardless of her abilities, can live with dignity and opportunity.

International Women's Day is an opportunity to empower women and elevate their voices. Gender equality is not just a women's issue but a human rights issue. Promoting policies that ensure equal opportunities, creating safe and accessible spaces, and challenging societal norms that perpetuate inequality are essential steps towards a more inclusive world. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us recognize the achievements of women with and without disabilities and reflect on the work that still needs to be done. Each of us can contribute to advancing gender equality by supporting women's initiatives, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for inclusive policies.

This year, International Women's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we've made and the journey ahead, celebrating women's achievements and advocating for their rights to honor their contributions, pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable world, and remind us of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive world where every woman, including those with disabilities, can thrive by elevating their voices, breaking barriers, and empowering all women to reach their full potential.

According to the theme of this year, together, we can break barriers and build an inclusive world where every woman, regardless of age, race, nationality, or disability, can thrive and reach her full potential.

World Hearing Day 2025

 

World Hearing Day 2025

World Hearing Day is observed on March 3rd every year. It's a global initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care for all. The theme for 2025 is "Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All." This year's focus is on breaking the stigma around hearing loss and encouraging proactive steps toward better hearing health.

Hearing loss is a significant public health issue affecting millions worldwide. According to WHO, over 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing impairment, and this number is expected to rise. The campaign emphasizes the importance of early detection, regular hearing check-ups, and the use of hearing aids and assistive devices without stigma.

Some key steps to safeguard hearing include:

• Lowering the volume and following the 60/60 rule (listen at 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes).
• Wearing ear protection in loud environments.
• Avoid inserting objects into the ear.
• Treating ear infections promptly.
• Getting regular hearing screenings.
• Empowering individuals on hearing care
• Campaign to raise awareness on hearing care
• Networking on hear care

Changing mindsets about hearing loss involves shifting societal attitudes and beliefs. By normalizing hearing aids and assistive devices, educating the public, and promoting advocacy, we can make people feel more comfortable seeking help. Open discussions about hearing loss within families, communities, and workplaces create supportive environments, while campaigns like World Hearing Day highlight the importance of hearing health.

Prioritizing hearing health means encouraging regular screenings, early detection, and intervention using hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices. Inclusive communication practices and supporting research can also foster a more inclusive society where everyone can participate fully, regardless of their hearing ability. This not only improves the lives of individuals with hearing loss but also fosters a culture of empathy, understanding, and support.

HANDS Foundation is already a member of the World Hearing Day campaign. If you're interested in more details or want to participate in World Hearing Day events, you can find more information by clicking on the link to the Word Hearing Website.

International Zero Discrimination Day

 

International Zero Discrimination Day

Observed annually on March 1st, the United Nations' Zero Discrimination Day serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the fundamental human right to live a life free from prejudice, stigma, and marginalization. This day underscores the urgent and ongoing need to combat all forms of discrimination, whether based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or any other status. As we approach Zero Discrimination Day 2025, the call for a more equitable and inclusive world resonates even more strongly. It's crucial to delve deeper into the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked experiences of South Asians with disabilities. Their experiences represent a complex intersection of discrimination, demanding focused attention and concerted action.

The Multifaceted Context of Disability

Disability is not a monolithic concept. It encompasses a wide spectrum of physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive, and mental impairments, some visible and others invisible. It is an integral and natural part of the human experience, affecting individuals across all demographics and socioeconomic backgrounds because of barriers. Despite its prevalence, persons with disabilities often encounter significant, systemic barriers that impede their full participation and inclusion in society. These barriers are not simply physical; they are often deeply rooted in societal attitudes, cultural norms, and systemic inequalities. They can manifest as inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory practices, various heartening terminologies, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and pervasive social stigma.

South Asians with Disabilities

South Asians with disabilities often face a double, sometimes even triple, burden of discrimination. They are marginalized not only as members of the disability community but also as individuals belonging to an ethnic minority group or sexual identity. Within their own communities, they may encounter cultural stigma, misconceptions surrounding the causes of disability, and even outright rejection. Disability may be viewed through a lens of shame, superstition, or as a punishment for past transgressions, leading to isolation and a lack of support for both the individual and their family. Furthermore, they often experience discrimination in the broader society due to their ethnicity, language, religious beliefs, or cultural practices. This intersectional discrimination, where multiple forms of prejudice converge, creates a complex web of disadvantage, leading to profound social exclusion, economic hardship, limited access to essential services, and diminished opportunities for personal growth and development.

The challenges faced by South Asians with disabilities are often exacerbated by poverty, lack of access to assistive technologies, limited availability of rehabilitation services, and inadequate representation in decision-making processes. These factors contribute to a cycle of marginalization, making it difficult for individuals to overcome the barriers they face and realize their full potential. The lack of disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities further complicates the issue, making it difficult to accurately assess the prevalence of disability and develop targeted interventions.

Unraveling the Roots of Disability Discrimination

Disability discrimination is a complex phenomenon with roots in a variety of interconnected factors, including:

• Lack of Awareness and Understanding: A fundamental cause of discrimination is the widespread lack of accurate information and understanding about disability. Misconceptions, stereotypes, and fear often fuel prejudice and negative attitudes. Many people are simply unaware of the diverse range of disabilities and the challenges faced by individuals living with them.
• Cultural Stigma and Misconceptions: In some cultures, disability is shrouded in stigma and viewed through a lens of shame or misfortune. This can lead to discrimination and exclusion of individuals with disabilities, preventing them from accessing support and resources.
• Fear and Discomfort: Some individuals may feel uncomfortable or even fearful around people with disabilities due to a lack of familiarity or understanding. This discomfort can lead to avoidance, exclusion, and discriminatory behavior.
• Systemic Barriers: Beyond individual attitudes, systemic, policy and institutional barriers play a significant role in perpetuating disability discrimination. These barriers can include inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory hiring practices, limited access to education and healthcare, and a lack of representation in decision-making bodies.
• Socioeconomic Condition: Poverty and socioeconomic disadvantage can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, limiting their access to resources, opportunities, and support.

Solutions for Disability Discrimination

Combating disability discrimination requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, involving individuals, communities, governments, and organizations working together. Key strategies include:

• Raising Awareness and Education: Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are essential for challenging stereotypes, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting a more inclusive understanding of disability. These initiatives should target schools, workplaces, communities, and the media.
• Universal Design: Ensuring that physical and digital environments are accessible to persons with disabilities is crucial for their full participation in society. This includes accessible buildings, transportation, websites, and assistive technologies. The principles of universal design, which aim to create environments that are usable by everyone to the greatest extent possible, should be incorporated into all aspects of design and planning.
• Implementation of Legal Framework: Robust legal frameworks that protect the rights of persons with disabilities are essential for ensuring equality and justice. These laws should prohibit discrimination in all areas of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and housing. Effective enforcement mechanisms are crucial for ensuring that these laws are implemented and that individuals with disabilities have access to redressal mechanisms.
• Empowerment: Supporting persons with disabilities to advocate for their rights, participate fully in their communities, and contribute their talents and skills is vital for promoting inclusion. This includes providing access to education, training, employment opportunities, and leadership development programs.
• Inclusive Education: Inclusive education, where students with and without disabilities learn together in the same classrooms, is essential for fostering understanding, breaking down stereotypes, and creating more inclusive classrooms.
• Support Services: Access to quality rehabilitation services, assistive technologies, and support services is crucial for enabling individuals with disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives.
• Disability Data: Collecting disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities is essential for understanding the specific challenges faced by this population and developing targeted interventions. Further research is needed to explore the cultural and social factors that contribute to disability discrimination in these communities.
• Partnerships: Addressing disability discrimination requires collaboration and partnerships between governments, NGOs, community organizations, and individuals with disabilities. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

On Zero Discrimination Day 2025, let us not only reaffirm our commitment to building a world free from discrimination but also amplify the voices of South Asians with disabilities. Let us move beyond mere tolerance and embrace a culture of inclusion, where everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, can live a life of dignity, respect, and opportunity. By working together to dismantle barriers, challenge prejudices, and promote inclusion, we can create a more just and equitable society for all. This requires a sustained effort, a commitment to listening to and learning from the experiences of marginalized communities, and a willingness to challenge our own biases and assumptions. Only then can we truly achieve a world where zero discrimination is a reality, not just an aspiration.