2024-11-03-联合国西亚经济社会委员会-区域手册_改进阿拉伯国家的残疾数据收集和分析_第二版（英）_83页_4mb

The "Regional Handbook: Improving Disability Data Collection and Analysis in Arab Countries" (Second Edition) highlights the progress and gaps in collecting reliable disability data across the Arab region. While 19 out of 21 ESCWA member states have conducted surveys capturing disability data, many lack full compliance with international standards, particularly the Washington Group (WG) recommendations. The evolution of data collection tools, from outdated censuses to integrated surveys, has improved prevalence rates but varies by country. Countries like Egypt and Bahrain are making strides by adopting the WG Short Set (WG-SS) and its enhanced version, the AWG-SS+, but challenges remain in consistent standardization and broader implementation.

The handbook stresses the importance of self-reported data from individuals, cautioning against proxy reports for children under 2 due to underreporting. Disability prevalence varies widely, often reflecting data collection methods rather than actual rates. For example, Egypt's prevalence rose from 1.9% to 2.5% as it refined its tools. Additionally, certain areas like violence against women with disabilities and comprehensive well-being measurements are underdeveloped, though some countries like Palestine are addressing this.

Key recommendations include adopting the AWG-SS+, implementing standardized introductory statements, avoiding stigmatizing language, fully adhering to CRPD and SDG targets (e.g., SDG 17.18 for data disaggregation), expanding to new domains in the WG-ES, and ensuring inclusive, accessible environments. A proposed stand-alone survey with three sections aims to collect detailed data on the well-being of persons with disabilities, covering housing, employment, education, and more, serving as a regional minimum standard.

ESCWA is coordinating closely with governments, NGOs, and international bodies like ILO and WHO to enhance data quality, improve access to assistive technologies, and monitor trends comparable across Arab countries. Consistent application of these standards is crucial for evidence-based policymaking to promote the equal rights and inclusive societies all persons with disabilities deserve.