The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Yemen estimated that 4.9 million persons with disabilities (PWDs) are in an incredibly challenging situation.
According to a recent report by OCHA, Yemen experienced a gradual reduction in cholera cases last month, marking a decline from the elevated figures that exceeded 1,000 cases three months prior.
The report added, “In the last quarter of 2023, Yemen experienced a surge in suspected cholera cases across multiple governorates. Initially, partners reported a higher proportion of suspected cases in Shabwah around mid-October 2023. Subsequently, an increased rate was confirmed in the governorates of Shabwah, Hadramawt, Aden, Abyan, Lahj, Al Maharah, Al Dhale, Taiz, and Al Hodeidah.”
“Between 16 October and 31 December 2023, a total of 1,018 reported cases were associated with the outbreak, spanning 23 districts in 9 governorates of southern and eastern Yemen.Tragically, there have been six deaths reported. Children under the age of five account for nearly one-third of the cases.”
However, the report noted that “the actual figures are likely much higher due to underreporting in various areas, especially in the northern part of the country,” which is under the control of Houthis.
The UN Office cited partners closely monitoring other governorates, including Marib, Al Bayda, and Al Jawf, saying there is “some indication of gradual improvement in the situation, as December data suggests a decrease in cases.”
“This decline is likely attributed to the colder weather.”
The report added that the partners consider this temporary relief “an opportunity to bolster preparedness measures in anticipation of the upcoming rainy season, which can facilitate the spread of cholera more easily.”
The Suffering of PWDs
According to the report, “Yemen’s prolonged crisis has left countless individuals displaced, injured, and traumatized. Among the affected population are persons with disabilities (PWDs), including those with physical and/or mental disabilities, who face a unique set of challenges.”
“PWDs face significant barriers to inclusion, exacerbated by the breakdown of community support, conflict, economic hardships, and lack of services. Stigma and social isolation are prevalent, with a Humanity and Inclusion (HI) overview in 2023 revealing that 89 percent of PWDs feel disrespected by their communities. Access to fundamental services like healthcare and education is inadequate, posing severe challenges to their well-being.”
OCHA said that “A lack of comprehensive disability data— notably in the north of Yemen—hampers the understanding of their needs and the challenges they face, particularly for women and girls with disabilities. This makes the situation for PWDs in Yemen incredibly challenging, with their needs often overlooked.”
Based on the WHO’s global estimate, approximately 4.9 million people in Yemen may have disabilities.
“Moreover, specialized services for PWDs are scarce, especially in hard-to-reach areas.” A study in 2022 by Amnesty International noted a drastic reduction in local organizations assisting PWDs due to the conflict.
“Many of these organizations also face challenges in providing assistance and protection to PWDs, collecting data, and conducting needs assessments. The conflict and natural disasters have compounded the difficulties for PWDs, often leading them to being excluded from full participation in their communities.”
The UN report warned that “All of these increase protection risks, including gender-based violence, particularly for women and girls.”
“Surveyed displaced PWDs who stated they do not feel comfortable accessing water services at the IDP camps due to lack of accessibility.”
“Displaced PWDs, in particular, face additional vulnerabilities in camps, such as insecurity, violence, and lack of safe, accessible facilities. This situation also affects their ability to partake in humanitarian and recovery efforts, increasing their risk of abuse and neglect,” added the report.
