CHALLENGES
Despite their significant presence, persons with disabilities in Bangladesh often remain excluded from mainstream development and face discrimination in accessing basic services, healthcare, employment opportunities, and social protection. They are also systematically excluded from local development as the local government (Union Parishad) has no dedicated budget for disability-related issues. Trapped in poverty, persons with disabilities experience social isolation and limited participation in community decision-making.
PROJECT INTERVENTION
The PPEPP-EU project places special emphasis on ensuring social dignity, livelihood opportunities, inclusion in public and private services, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Through its advocacy efforts, PPEPP-EU holds regular meetings with local government institutions and stakeholders to ensure this group has access to government services, the social safety net, and healthcare facilities. Led by Persons with Disabilities forums- established to promote awareness, solidarity, and empowerment among persons with disabilities, PPEPP-EU members engage with the Union Parishad (UP), urging for disability-related budget allocation in UP’s annual budget planning.
RESULTS
Through continuous advocacy by the Persons with Disabilities Forums and support from the project, it was possible to secure a dedicated budget allocation for persons with disabilities in the Union Parishad’s annual budget. Today, 97 Union Parishads under the project’s working areas have allocated dedicated budgets for persons with disabilities in their annual budget plans. The total allocation has increased from BDT 2.75 million in FY 2022–23 to BDT 5.38 million in FY 2025–26. These funds are being utilised to support assistive devices, mobility aids, healthcare services, home modifications, and other disability-inclusive interventions. The implementation of allocated budgets has also risen significantly, from 51 percent in FY 2022–23 to 68 percent in FY 2025–26.
Inspired by the results achieved under PPEPP-EU, 32 additional Union Parishads outside the project areas have introduced dedicated disability budgets into their annual plans, demonstrating the model’s broader influence and sustainability.
Beyond budget allocations, the project has also promoted the participation of persons with disabilities in local governance structures. A total of 228 persons with disabilities have been included in Union Parishad Standing Committees, while 712 have become members of Union and Ward Disaster Management Committees. Their participation ensures that disability perspectives are reflected in local planning, disaster preparedness, and community development initiatives.
TESTIMONY
Parul Akter (34) is a person with a disability and a PPEPP-EU member in Ashashuni, Satkhira. “We have discussed the importance and opportunity of a specific budget allocation for persons with disabilities in the UP’s yearly budget. They have assured us about the allocation in the upcoming budget, which will be a great initiative for us and many others who have children with disabilities”, said Parul after attending a Union Parishad budget meeting in her union.
WAY FORWARD
PPEPP-EU is working to strengthen these gains in the coming years, especially after the project’s implementation period. Continued advocacy, increased budget allocations, and greater participation in local governance will further enhance the social and economic inclusion of persons with disabilities and support their meaningful integration into mainstream development.