The inclusion of a question on disability status in the 2012 census was a giant step forward for disability rights in Paraguay. Among those spearheading the campaign to assure that citizens with disabilities were counted, was IAF grantee
Fundación Saraki (Saraki). For years government estimates incorrectly indicated that only 1 percent of Paraguayans had any disability. But this year, the responses of more than 80 percent of the households participating in the survey revealed that Paraguayans with disabilities account for about 12 percent of the population, a figure consistent with international trends, according to the Paraguayan Directorate for Statistics, Surveys and Census.
Well aware of the importance of the data to the allocation of public resources, Saraki anticipated the census with a media campaign encouraging Paraguayans with disabilities to come forward. It also worked with government officials to sensitize census-takers to factors that lead to the undercounting of this population.
With its IAF grant, Saraki helps communities organize boards representing residents with disabilities and works with civil society, government and the private sector to improve general awareness of their rights. Saraki’s coordinating committee ensures that all levels of government comply with laws intended to assure access to buildings, education and health services for disabled Paraguayans.