This is our perspective, and we acknowledge that others may have differing views, which are valid and welcome. I understand that our same logic might apply to many places and situations, but I invite you to consider this scenario for a moment. Imagine you’re in a position to allocate a donor’s contribution of £5000. You have a critical decision to make, one that requires a thorough cost-benefit analysis. You could choose to invest this amount in supporting a student’s foreign education, a long-term investment that may yield returns only 20 years down the line, and perhaps even then only equal to the original donation. Alternatively, you could use these funds for something with a more immediate impact, such as healthcare, social care, or essential community support. My concern lies in guiding donors toward considering not only what they think is valuable but also what communities in Gilgit Baltistan may need most urgently.

A wise adviser once shared that in the UK, every national government, public interest (PI) firm, and donor is motivated to invest in the disability sector. There is an understanding here that investing in disability services, accessibility, and social care creates inclusive societies, boosts the economy, and empowers individuals with disabilities to lead fuller lives. This begs the question: why don’t we see this focus in Pakistan, particularly in areas like Gilgit Baltistan? Why is there a lack of targeted private investment directed at improving the lives of disabled individuals, who face some of the most significant barriers to education, employment, and social participation?

While short-term projects funded by donors are undeniably beneficial to society, sometimes producing immediate visible changes, I believe it’s essential to consider a broader perspective. Simon Sinek once said, “be different,” and this concept applies perfectly here. Why not stand out by addressing areas of unmet need? Why not focus on groups that are often overlooked and marginalized, like disabled individuals, and invest in creating lasting, equitable change for them? Inequality rules the mind

Inequality rules the mind

There’s also an undeniable sense of disparity that colors this discussion—a feeling of imbalance. In Urdu, there’s a phrase that loosely translates to “lack of awareness,” which captures an attitude that may contribute to why disability support is so underfunded. It is as if these issues are taken for granted, brushed aside without full consideration of their importance. This lack of awareness perpetuates an unequal society where certain needs remain unmet simply because they aren’t prioritized.

Let us do a thought experiment. Picture yourself as an elite in the world. Picture yourself with money, maybe 2.5 M$ is your monthly salary. Now imagine giving that to a disabled person

Let’s take a moment for a thought experiment. Picture yourself as one of the world’s elites, enjoying a life of abundance, with a monthly income of $2.5 million. Now, imagine what it would be like to invest even a fraction of that income into the life of a disabled person—someone facing barriers to education, employment, and daily life that we often don’t consider in our day-to-day existence. A small portion of such wealth, directed thoughtfully, could profoundly change the life of a person who lacks access to basic resources.

This disparity, however, reflects something much deeper—a mindset shaped by inequality. There’s an undeniable sense of imbalance here, an outlook that often ignores or underestimates the importance of disability support and social inclusion. In Urdu, there’s a phrase loosely translating to “lack of awareness,” which encapsulates this very attitude. Issues that don’t directly affect us are often taken for granted, brushed aside without adequate thought. This “lack of awareness” can perpetuate an unequal society where certain fundamental needs are unmet, simply because they are not prioritized.

When we look at places like Gilgit Baltistan, we must ask ourselves why this lack of investment in disability support persists. In the UK, for instance, governments, public interest firms, and donors increasingly direct resources toward disability services, accessibility, and inclusive social care. There is a collective understanding that supporting these areas builds an inclusive society, strengthens the economy, and enables individuals with disabilities to contribute and live fuller lives. But in Pakistan, particularly in areas like Gilgit Baltistan, private investment in disability support is almost absent. Why?

While it’s true that many donors focus on short-term projects that offer quick, visible benefits to society, perhaps there’s room for a shift. Imagine what might be possible if donors could look beyond short-term gains and recognize the profound, lasting impact of investing in underfunded areas like disability support. As Simon Sinek suggests, we can “be different.” Standing out sometimes means focusing on areas that are often overlooked and marginalized, like the disabled community, and creating equitable, lasting change for them.

The choice between funding a long-term goal like a foreign education or addressing immediate community needs in healthcare and disability support isn’t always easy, yet it’s essential to recognize the profound impact that can be made by addressing urgent needs. By guiding donors to consider not only what they value but also what communities in Gilgit Baltistan may urgently need, we encourage a holistic approach to development—one that’s deeply rooted in the immediate realities of those we aim to support.

You Wake Up One Day as a Human Being

Imagine waking up one typical morning, ready to face the day. You have breakfast with friends or family, exchanging stories and plans for the day ahead. It’s an ordinary day, filled with routine activities and familiar faces.

Going About Your Day

You head out to attend your job, school, or college, navigating the bustling streets and crowded public transport. The day unfolds as expected: meetings, classes, and interactions fill your schedule. Amidst the busyness, you find moments of calm and contemplation, perhaps during a coffee break or a quiet moment between tasks.

A Sudden Encounter

Then, suddenly, you notice a person with a disability. They might be navigating the street, attending the same class as you, or driving on the road. This sight catches your attention and stirs a range of thoughts and emotions.

Your Feelings

Initially, your feelings are dominated by empathy. You imagine the challenges and obstacles faced by the person with a disability, appreciating your own abilities more deeply. However, over time, this empathy gradually morphs into self-pity directed towards the person with a disability. In Urdu, typically people say “Shukar Alhamdulillah” (Thank God), feeling grateful that they do not have to go through such hardships.

Cursed Feelings

These feelings of self-pity are what we call cursed feelings. Over time, you might start seeing a person with a disability as an object of pity rather than recognizing them for who they truly are—individuals with their own strengths, experiences, and dignity.

The Curse of Ableism

Ableism is the real curse, an insidious attitude that views people with disabilities as lesser or as objects of pity rather than equals. All of humanity, whether you believe in a god or not, is part of nature and deserving of equal respect and opportunity. However, society often fails to think this way. Instead, we leave people with disabilities, including those who are blind, deaf, or physically impaired, to suffer in silence.

Why?

Why do we perpetuate this cycle of pity and exclusion? It stems from a lack of understanding and awareness. We fail to recognize the full humanity of people with disabilities and the richness they bring to our communities. Breaking free from these cursed feelings involves:

1. Education and Awareness: Learning about the diverse experiences of people with disabilities and understanding the barriers they face.
2. Advocacy and Support: Promoting policies and practices that ensure accessibility and inclusivity in all aspects of life.
3. Empathy and Respect: Treating people with disabilities with the same empathy and respect we would want for ourselves.

By challenging our own biases and advocating for a more inclusive society, we can move away from cursed feelings and towards genuine empathy and equality for all.

The Importance of Cleanliness and Our Responsibility

The video displayed on the screen is not from a distant or unfamiliar place, but from the beautiful region of Gilgit, a place that holds a special place in our hearts. It is disheartening to see this beloved area marred by heaps of dirt and garbage scattered everywhere. This issue is not due to a lack of sanitation arrangements by the government; in fact, the government has made commendable efforts to ensure excellent sanitation services. The root of this problem lies in our own attitudes and behaviors towards cleanliness.

Government Efforts and Community Negligence

The government has implemented robust measures to maintain cleanliness, including regular garbage collection and provision of adequate sanitation facilities. Garbage vehicles frequent the roads daily, yet the streets remain littered with waste. This negligence is particularly glaring in areas near institutions dedicated to the welfare of people with special needs. One such institution, established and managed by differently-abled individuals, aims to empower people with special needs by teaching them various skills. Despite the noble work being done inside, the surrounding area is often cluttered with garbage.

Cleanliness: A Shared Responsibility

Cleanliness is not just the government’s responsibility; it is a shared duty that requires active participation from every citizen

1. Health Benefits

Clean environments significantly reduce the risk of diseases. Garbage can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, viruses, and pests, which pose severe health risks to the community. Proper waste disposal and maintaining clean surroundings help prevent the spread of infections and contribute to better public health.

2. Environmental Impact

Littering and improper waste management harm the environment. Pollution from garbage affects wildlife, contaminates water sources, and degrades the natural beauty of our surroundings. By ensuring proper waste disposal, we protect our environment and preserve the ecological balance for all beings.

3. Social Responsibility

Maintaining cleanliness is a reflection of our respect for our surroundings and our fellow citizens. It demonstrates our commitment to community welfare and quality of life. Clean streets and public spaces create a pleasant and healthy environment for everyone, enhancing the overall standard of living.

The Basis of Exclusion

Exclusion of individuals or communities, especially those with disabilities, often lacks a legal foundation. No disabled person can legally charge someone with a violation of their human rights without substantial evidence. This lack of enforceable legal protection contributes to the perpetuation of exclusion.

Exclusion is often the path of least resistance. Including disabled individuals in social, professional, and communal discourse requires effort, adaptation, and often a shift in perspective. Many people default to a charitable model, where disabled individuals are only considered during specific times, such as the Islamic tradition of Ramadan. While these traditions can highlight the needs of disabled communities, they are insufficient for promoting continuous inclusion.

Why Should It Be My Problem?

A prevalent mindset is, “Why should it be my problem?” Many people believe that addressing the needs of disabled individuals is the responsibility of experts, laws, and government agencies. This perspective is a form of the bystander effect, where people assume someone else will address the issue, thus diminishing individual accountability and making it a public issue.

The Ease of Exclusion

Choosing exclusion over inclusion is often the easier route. Ignoring the needs and existence of disabled individuals allows people to avoid the discomfort and effort involved in making necessary changes to accommodate them. This neglect can lead to severe consequences for disabled communities, exacerbating their marginalization and the challenges they face.

The Meaning of Disabled and the Need for Inclusion

The term “disabled” carries multiple connotations. In the realm of information technology, “disabled” refers to a program, software, or hardware that is not functioning correctly. This technical usage can contribute to the negative perception of the term when applied to people. Many in the disabled community find the term limiting and stigmatizing.

In society, falsehoods and misconceptions about disabled individuals contribute to their exclusion. Phrases like “Do not mingle with the disabled community because they do not understand” perpetuate harmful stereotypes and deepen the divide. These misconceptions have persisted for millennia, shaping public perception and behavior toward disabled individuals.

The Importance of Inclusion

Inclusion is not merely a moral obligation but a necessity for a just and equitable society. Disabled individuals deserve the same opportunities, rights, and respect as anyone else. True inclusion involves challenging stereotypes, dismantling barriers, and fostering an environment where everyone can participate fully. This shift requires collective effort and a commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs and contributions of disabled individuals.

Promoting inclusion over exclusion benefits society as a whole. It leads to a more diverse, compassionate, and innovative community where everyone’s potential is recognized and valued. It is time to move beyond token gestures of inclusion and work towards genuine integration and acceptance of disabled individuals in all aspects of life.

On Tuesday, June 25th, 2024, Ghulam Baig, the CEO of Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement, celebrated a remarkable achievement by graduating with a BA Honours in Politics and International Relations from The University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, UK. This milestone is particularly significant as Baig becomes the first disabled person from Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan to graduate from this prestigious institution.

Baig expressed immense pride and gratitude for this achievement, noting that being the first disabled person to graduate from The University of Strathclyde is a great honor. In his conversation with Goodwill Movement, he highlighted the personal and collective significance of this accomplishment. Baig’s journey, however, underscores a broader issue that requires attention: the support and recognition of disabled individuals within Pakistan.

Why must such assets prove themselves at an international level before being appreciated locally?” Baig questioned.

His experiences reflect the challenges and triumphs of the disabled community, emphasizing the need for greater inclusion and support within Pakistan. Baig’s success story serves as both an inspiration and a call to action, urging society to come together and create a more inclusive environment that recognizes and nurtures the potential of all its members, regardless of physical abilities.

This poignant inquiry sheds light on the broader systemic issues faced by the disabled community in Pakistan. Despite their immense potential and talent, individuals with disabilities often find themselves overlooked and underappreciated within their local contexts. This lack of recognition not only undermines their abilities but also perpetuates a cycle of marginalization and limited opportunities.

Several factors contribute to this issue. Cultural perceptions and stigmas associated with disability play a significant role in limiting opportunities for disabled individuals. Many communities in Pakistan still view disability through a lens of pity and charity rather than empowerment and capability, which is not been reduced by the overseas community. This outdated perspective often leads to disabled individuals being underestimated and their potential overlooked.

Furthermore, the lack of accessible infrastructure and inclusive education systems exacerbates the problem. Educational institutions in Pakistan frequently lack the necessary resources and support systems to accommodate disabled students, thereby limiting their educational and professional prospects.

In addressing these challenges, the role of overseas Pakistanis becomes crucial. The Pakistani diaspora, particularly those who have achieved success and recognition abroad, have a responsibility to contribute to the betterment of their homeland. They possess the resources, influence, and global perspective needed to drive meaningful change.

Instead of being overly political with supporting a certain individual, Overseas Pakistanis can also leverage their experiences and networks to advocate for better policies and practices that support disabled individuals. That is the true meaning of Pakistan.