Abstract Social inclusion is integral to the quality of life for people with disabilities (PWD). Using a social work lens, this article examines how policy, culture, and religion intersect to shape societal responses to disability in three nations: the United States, Egypt, and Ethiopia. Despite the existence of legal frameworks promoting disability rights, implementation gaps persist due to limited funding, lack of accountability, and cultural barriers. Social workers are positioned to bridge the gap between policy and practice by advocating for equitable resource distribution and culturally relevant applications of disability rights. Community inclusion for PWD demands systemic change, beyond legislation, to challenge dominant cultural narratives and transform structural norms. A culturally responsive, rights-based approach is essential to creating truly inclusive communities for PWD worldwide.
Keesler et al. (Fri,) studied this question.