Persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable groups when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic. They may be more vulnerable to respiratory diseases, and complications that may result from their disability. Persons with disabilities may also encounter specific obstacles that make it difficult for them to follow precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

In this context, and in its efforts to support Arab countries to have disability-inclusive policies and plans, the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) conducted a mapping of disability-inclusive precautionary measures taken by Arab governments, and of accessible awareness materials for persons with disabilities and published on governmental and non-governmental platforms, including social media.