Policy and Practice of Disability in Rural Zones of Southern Peru and Coastal Ecuador

Abstract

This study investigates the sociopolitical realities for individuals with disabilities in rural zones of Ecuador and Peru. Chapter One defines disability within global, national, and local contexts with regards to La Ley Orgánica de Discapacidades of Ecuador and Law No. 29973 of Peru, laws enacted to protect individuals with disabilities in each respective country. Chapter Two describes two case studies based on short term ethnographic fieldwork in 2017 and 2018 among disabled populations in San Migos, Ecuador. These narratives contribute to a general understanding of how access to medical professionals and quality diagnoses are determined by geographic situation, economic ability, and familial situation. This inequitable system contributes to the lack of political support for individuals in rural zones, such as San Migos, Ecuador. Chapter Three focuses on case studies taken in 2018 from Rio Mar, Peru and discusses structural limitations, such as education, familial support, and economic abilities, that make it difficult for individuals with disabilities to claim rights and recognition by the Peruvian government. Chapter Four compares case studies in Ecuador and Peru and makes suggestions for disability practices in each respective country. The situation for people with disabilities in rural areas of ​​Rio Mar, Peru and San Migos, Ecuador is neither equitable nor efficient. We must increase research in this area to improve the system.