Highlighting the need for more holistic, participatory design of assistive technologies in displacement settings

Bibliographic Data

ID22080149
AuthorsHelen Lindsay (0000-0001-8614-1661, Boston University), Rashmina J Sayeeda (Boston University), Yanina Nahum (Boston University), Rana Hussein (0000-0001-6292-2375, Boston University), Carrie Preston (Boston University), Muhammad H Zaman (0000-0002-3723-5431, Center on Forced Displacement, Boston University), Marzia Zaman (0000-0002-0610-0470, Boston University)
Year2026
Volume14
Pages1675888-1675888
Publication date2026-03-12
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueFrontiers in Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2296-2565 • E-ISSN: 2296-2565
PublisherFrontiers Media SA (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3389/fpubh.2026.1675888
PMID41908763
OpenAlexW7135104069
LanguageEN
References cited16

Forced displacement exacerbates existing disabilities and can lead to the development of functional impairments, especially for women, children, and aging populations. Estimates indicate 15 to 33% of displaced individuals live with disabilities, but data remains limited. This perspective piece describes the current landscape of assistive technologies addressing physical, motor, and sensory disabilities in displacement settings. While some initiatives exist, particularly in mobile technologies and mobility aids, there is a notable lack of targeted development of Assistive Technologies (ATs) and funding opportunities specifically intended for displaced populations with disabilities. Therefore, we emphasize the need for increased attention to this critical topic, and propose a shift toward more robust, ethical, interdisciplinary research initiatives on assistive technologies in displacement settings. Such initiatives should incorporate community-engaged and participatory design, anticipate and mitigate potential harms, and promote dignity and well-being within these communities. We also stress that ATs in displacement settings should be integrated into existing service delivery frameworks rather than remaining as short term or pilot projects

Assistive technology · Citizen journalism · Dignity · Emerging technologies · Participatory action research · Participatory design · Service delivery framework · Assistive Technology in Communication and Mobility · Disability Rights and Representation · Innovative Human-Technology Interaction

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