Abstract

Armed conflicts leave profound and enduring impacts on populations, with disability emerging as one of the most 
significant yet under-addressed consequences of war. This narrative review examines the burden of disability in 
post-war societies, the multidimensional challenges faced by persons with disabilities, and the evolving landscape 
of rehabilitation and inclusion efforts. Evidence from conflict-affected regions demonstrates that war-related 
injuries, psychological trauma, explosive remnants, and the destruction of health and social systems significantly 
increase disability prevalence while simultaneously weakening service delivery capacity. Post-conflict 
environments are further characterized by inadequate funding, fragmented health systems, limited assistive 
technologies, and persistent social stigma, all of which constrain rehabilitation outcomes and hinder social 
integration. Despite these barriers, innovative approaches including community-based rehabilitation (CBR), 
inclusive policy reforms, strengthened health workforce training, and partnerships between governments, NGOs, 
and disability organizations show promise in advancing equitable access to rehabilitation services. The review 
highlights the need for long-term, context-specific strategies that prioritize accessibility, community participation, 
and systems strengthening. Sustainable investments in rehabilitation, robust disability-inclusive policies, and the 
integration of assistive technologies are essential for enabling full participation and improving the quality of life of 
persons with disabilities in post-war settings.