Climate Change and Humanitarian Response: What Needs to Change

Climate change is making life harder for people with intellectual disabilities. During emergencies, people often struggle to access the support they need to stay safe and independent. Many humanitarian organisations do not understand intellectual disability or how to provide inclusive aid.

This handout explains:

  • The specific challenges people with intellectual disabilities face in crisis situations.
  • What an inclusive humanitarian response looks like.
  • What governments, humanitarian organisations, and communities can do to ensure people with intellectual disabilities are not left behind.

Self-advocates from around the world share their experiences and call for change. They demand clear communication, accessible services, and meaningful inclusion in climate and disaster planning.

This document was prepared for the Global Disability Summit 2025, with support from UNICEF and the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

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