Deafblindness across global contexts: Exploring two pathways and outcomes in relation to the UN sustainable development goals

The life trajectories of individuals living with deafblindness can vary substantially across global contexts, yet comparative evidence between the Global South and the Global North remains limited. This qualitative study explores similarities and differences in healthcare, employment and educational access, supports and outcomes among individuals with congenital or early-onset deafblindness across both sides of the world. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults from the Global South and the Global North, recruited through international partners and organizations of and for people with deafblindness. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a framework analysis approach. Findings highlight contrasts in formal education opportunities in urban and rural areas, availability of accommodations and professional support. In the context of employment, access appeared to be facilitated in collectivistic cultures, where community structures support skill development, whereas individuals in more individualistic cultures encountered greater challenges in accessing employment. The study underscores the importance of contextual factors, including urban-rural settings and cultural importance of community, in shaping educational and employment trajectories. These findings emphasize the need for equitable, context-responsive educational, employment and healthcare policies and global collaboration to improve inclusion for individuals with deafblindness across the world.