Humanity & Inclusion’s new publication ‘Rehabilitation matters – The appeal made by people in conflict-affected areas‘ highlights the importance of access to rehabilitation and assistive technology in the context of victim assistance, and during and after conflict.

Funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the publication can be accessed through its report and dedicated website. Photo exhibitions, based on the portraits of people featured in the publication, will be organised in various locations in the coming months (more information will be circulated in due course).

About the publication

Seven people shared their lived experiences of accessing rehabilitation and assistive technology in conflict-affected areas in Colombia, Iraq and Lao PDR. They are women and men, of different ages and with different profiles: victims of explosive weapons or ordnance, internally displaced persons, persons with disabilities and caregivers.

Their diverse and unique stories come together in a single appeal: it is time to scale up efforts and ensure that quality rehabilitation and assistive technology are provided to all in need, as a matter of rights, inclusion and dignity.

This appeal is articulated through a series of recommendations and accompanied by some contextualised facts and data.

The publication’s key messages

• More than 50% of people who need rehabilitation services cannot access them and, in some countries, the access to assistive technology is as low as 3%. In conflict-affected areas, access to rehabilitation and assistive technology is further jeopardised. However, conflicts cause surges in injuries or critical illness, thus increasing rehabilitation needs.
• Victims are not only those who are killed on injured by explosive weapons or ordnance, but also their families and communities. People living in areas contaminated by explosive ordnance are exposed to this threat for decades and have difficulties accessing services, including rehabilitation. In 2022, 3015 people were injured by landmines and explosive remnants of war, and 17038 people were injured by explosive weapons, with a potential need for long-term assistance.
• It is crucial to ensure access to rehabilitation and assistive technology, both for people who already had health conditions and for people who acquired them in the conflict. Rehabilitation and assistive technology help individuals achieve their full potential.