Disability and participation in post-conflict situations: the case of Sierra Leone

This article describes four unexpected and spontaneous themes emerging from qualitative research based on the International Classification of Disability Functioning and Health, which took place in Sierra Leone, West Africa: the desire to live in a community of people with disabilities; the desire to be recognized as equal citizens and be given equal opportunities; the desire to become economically independent; and a high expectation of assistance. This article discuses the impact of these themes on two debates: the integration versus segregation of individuals and disability services, and the disability poverty cycle. The results of this study challenge non-governmental organizations to be aware of the Western norms and values of disability issues that are applied to the implementation of their programmes in low-income nations.