Despite progress, persons with disabilities remain among the most hidden and neglected of all displaced people. They are excluded from or unable to access most aid programs because of physical and social barriers or because of negative attitudes and biases. They are often not identified when aid agencies and organizations collect data and assess needs during and after a humanitarian disaster. They are more likely to be forgotten when health and support services are provided.
Being displaced can exacerbate refugees with disabilities' isolation. This increases their vulnerability to a variety of protection concerns -- such as violence, abuse and exploitation -- particularly for women and children. Indeed, persons with disabilities are three times more likely to be victims of rape and other physical and sexual abuse.