Leisure, Disabilities and Social Justice in the Global Era
Tuesday, 8 July 2025: 09:00-10:45
Location: FSE012 (Faculty of Education Sciences (FSE))
RC13 Sociology of Leisure (host committee)
Language: English
The struggle for people with disabilities to gain equal access to leisure activities is a global issue that entails several vital challenges and necessitates concerted advocacy efforts. Globally, there is an uneven progression in the availability of accessible leisure facilities and activities, with developed countries generally offering better accessibility compared to developing ones. Additionally, cultural attitudes can significantly impede opportunities for leisure participation as discriminatory views towards disabilities persist in certain societies. A lack of widespread awareness about the specific needs of individuals with disabilities often results in a scarcity of accessible leisure options. Economic disparities further complicate access, as the costs for accessible travel, equipment, and specialised services can be prohibitively high for many.
To counter these obstacles, a multi-faceted approach to advocacy is essential. International collaboration is crucial, with the sharing of best practices and resources across borders to improve accessibility. Advocates are also pushing for more robust policies and legislation that enforce accessibility standards in leisure venues and services worldwide. Moreover, the disability rights movement plays a pivotal role in empowering people with disabilities, advocating for their rights to equal access to leisure activities. Such efforts are not only about ensuring accessibility but also about affirming the rights of individuals with disabilities to enjoy leisure and recreation on equal terms with others, highlighting the importance of social justice in the realm of leisure and accessibility.
The present session welcomes abstracts and research papers on different aspects of leisure for people with disabilities and social justice implications.
Session Organizer:
Pranjal SARMA, Dibrugarh University, India
Chair:
Smita AWACHAR, Tantradhyna nagar, India
Co-Chair:
Prem Sagar VIVEK, University of Mumbai, India
Panelist:
Kali JHA, India
Discussant:
Anju BENIWAL, Govt. Meera Girls College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, India
Oral Presentations
