Behinderung und Entwicklungs­zusammen­arbeit e.V.

Call for Papers - Mobility

Find the recent Call for Papers and other relevant information, when you are interested to contribute to the journal through publishing an article.

2024-3 Call for Papers

Theme: Mobility

Mobility is the ability to move freely and easily within one’s environment. This includes but is not limited to a physical movement around the world, such as transportation and accessibility of buildings. It does also include the movement through the social hierarchy influencing civilisation, for example gaining social, economic and/or cultural capital. As well as the mobility of resources to ensure a good life to all people irrespective of where they live and which privileges or discrimination they experience, including for example medication. Hence, mobility is not merely about the physical movement from one place to another; it represents a crucial aspect of autonomy, social participation, and access to opportunities.

For persons with disabilities, mobility challenges are often compounded by systemic barriers, including infrastructural deficits, societal attitudes, and lack of inclusive policies. They are affecting their independence, social inclusion, and access to essential services. Barriers such as inaccessible transportation, inadequate infrastructure, and societal attitudes create significant obstacles. Understanding this relationship is crucial for identifying effective interventions that enhance mobility and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) both emphasize the importance of mobility as a fundamental aspect of inclusion and equality. The SDGs, particularly Goal 11, advocate for making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, which includes ensuring access to public spaces and transportation for all, including individuals with disabilities. Similarly, the UN CRPD highlights the right to freedom of movement and the need for accessible transportation systems, emphasizing that states must take appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities can enjoy the same rights as others. Together, these frameworks call for the removal of barriers to mobility, promoting not only physical access but also the social participation of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of life.

The challenges associated with mobility in the Global South are substantial, including limited resources, inadequate policy frameworks, and persistent stigma. Public transportation systems frequently lack the necessary accommodations, while urban planning often overlooks the needs of individuals with disabilities. These factors contribute to social exclusion and hinder access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. However, there are also significant opportunities for innovation and community engagement. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in assistive technologies and mobility solutions tailored for persons with disabilities. Local solutions, such as community-driven transport initiatives, mobility aids or smartphone applications that provide navigation assistance can enhance mobility and empower persons with disabilities.

In summary, the intersection of mobility, disability, and the Global South presents a complex array of challenges and opportunities. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that considers infrastructure, social inclusion, cultural attitudes, innovative solutions, and robust policy frameworks. By prioritizing mobility, we can contribute to a more equitable society that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Against this background, issue 2024-3 of the Journal “Disability and International Development” aims to explore the intricate relationship between mobility and disability, particularly focusing on contexts within the Global South. The issue takes a closer look at challenges, good practices, and lessons learned regarding mobility of persons with disabilities. We invite researchers and experts with a practical background to contribute to any of the following topics:

• scientific studies on mobility of persons with disabilities (e.g. possibilities of (social) mobility, participation in the development of a more equal mobility) and its impact on social inclusion,
• models, programmes, concepts, and practices that promote the mobility of persons with disabilities,
• opportunities, needs and ways forward for the engagement and participation of persons with disabilities in mobility and its change in the background of the SDGs and the UN CRPD,
• data, reports, and concepts on the situation of persons with disabilities in the context of mobility and additional disadvantaging factors like women* with disabilities, migrants with disabilities, older persons or people in rural areas.

Before you send us your suggestion, please read the “Information for Authors” first and then contact the coordinating editor via e-mail then: Judith Langensiepen (langensiepen@bezev.de)

Deadline for submission of papers: December 8, 2024