Inclusive Crisis Response: Advisory Support to IOM in Nepal
Project | March 19, 2025
CBM Global’s Inclusion Advisory Group (IAG) provided technical advice on disability inclusion to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Nepal. This initiative focused on enhancing accessibility in evacuation centers across Bagmati, Lumbini, and Sudurpaschim Provinces.
IAG, in collaboration with IOM and local Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), conducted comprehensive accessibility audits of three evacuation centers. In line with global best practice, the project also developed prototypes for accessible and inclusive evacuation center designs, ensuring facilities accommodate the diverse needs of persons with disabilities during disasters.
IAG developed tailored advice and tools, including an updated Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) accessibility audit checklist and detailed recommendations for improving evacuation centers. Federal and community level consultation workshops were conducted to ensure ownership and practical outputs. These also helped facilitate networks between OPDs, engineers, local government representatives, and other stakeholders.
This initiative has laid a foundation for long-lasting change by increasing awareness, influencing design standards, and promoting inclusive policies in disaster preparedness. The findings and prototype designs have been submitted to the Government of Nepal, with the potential to shape future accessibility standards across the country.
“The accessibility audits and prototype designs have significantly enhanced our understanding of inclusive disaster response. The IAG has set a precedent for integrating OPD perspectives and technical expertise into such initiatives, by working directly with OPDs during the accessibility audits and using case studies.” IOM focal person
“Engaging OPDs meaningfully in every phase of the project ensured authentic, user-informed insights. This partnership highlighted the invaluable contributions of persons with disabilities in shaping inclusive infrastructure.” Bimal Paudel, CBM Global Disability Inclusion Advisor
CBM Global has a wider Memorandum of Understand with IOM. IAG looks forward to continuing its collaboration with IOM and other stakeholders to build a more inclusive future in disaster preparedness and beyond.
https://cbm-global.org/project/inclusive-crisis-response-advisory-support-to-iom-in-nepal
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