Mainstreaming disability in Indonesian development: rethinking disability citizenship to move beyond a welfare focus

Poverty remains a critical issue for people with disability in the global South because disability and poverty are mutually reinforcing. However, it is not sufficient to focus on poverty alleviation. Indeed, the policy issues that people with disability face cut across sectors and require cross sector responses and input directly from people with disability. This chapter argues the term difabel, developed by Indonesian disability activists, provides a framework to both reconceptualize and drive disability mainstreaming in development beyond a welfare focus. The framework is built upon the human rights perspective and obligations of Indonesians with disability. It is underpinned by the recognition and legitimacy of their own civic identity, which demands their comprehensive inclusion and full participation in development.