Global study reveals why disability inclusion programmes fail to last and how to fix it

A new global study by Liliane Fonds and partners finds that community-based disability inclusion programmes are far more likely to succeed long-term when responsibility is embedded in government systems rather than relying on external funding.

The publication, Community-Based Disability Inclusion Insights, is based on a global survey of 187 organisations across 25 countries, a literature review, and field studies in Cameroon, Rwanda and Zambia. It examines why many disability inclusion initiatives lose momentum once donor funding ends and what can be done to prevent that.

From projects to systems

Conducted within the Breaking down Barriers programme, a long-term initiative led by Liliane Fonds and Radboud University in the Netherlands, in collaboration with international partners, the research shows that sustainability is less a matter of programme design and more an institutional challenge. Lasting impact depends on whether responsibility, financing, and decision-making are gradually embedded in government systems.

“Our findings show that programmes are most likely to last when they are designed for handover, shift accountability to a lead ministry, and anchor responsibility in government budgets and routines,” says Willem Elbers, Principal Investigator of Breaking down Barriers.

Four pillars of sustainable inclusion

The study identifies four key conditions for sustainable disability inclusion programmes:

• Community engagement: ensuring local ownership and participation from the start
• Financial sustainability: embedding funding within public budgets and systems
• Policy integration: aligning programmes with national strategies and institutions
• Operational capacity: strengthening government and partner systems to deliver services effectively

Across all four areas, the study finds that strong collaboration between international NGOs, organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), governments and communities is essential for long-term success.

What works in practice

The report highlights practical steps for governments, donors, and practitioners to improve sustainability, including:

• selecting appropriate sectors in which to embed programmes
• planning phased expansion across sectors rather than isolated projects
• strengthening long-term collaboration and shared ownership
• integrating programmes into government planning, budgeting, and monitoring systems
• supporting OPDs and communities to engage effectively with institutions

A shift in focus: tackling stigma and discrimination

The findings also set the agenda for the next phase of research under Breaking down Barriers. In 2026 new research focusses on effective strategies for community engagement, particularly how to address barriers related to stigma and discrimination. This is identified as one of the most persistent barriers to disability inclusion worldwide.

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About Breaking down Barriers

Breaking down Barriers is a multi-year research, learning, and knowledge-sharing programme led by Liliane Fonds and Radboud University. It brings together practitioners, researchers, organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), and government partners to strengthen disability-inclusive development through evidence and practical guidance.