LOCAL GOVERNMENT POLICY ON EMPOWERMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN LAMPUNG PROVINCE, INDONESIA

Persons with disabilities have the same rights as other citizens to enjoy a life of fairness and justice. The constitution guarantees full participation of persons with disabilities in the development process. Policies in education and employment are the main pillars of empowering persons with disabilities. However, the implementation of these policies is not always effective. This research aims to provide an overview of local government policies on the empowerment of persons with disabilities in Lampung Province. The method used is descriptive qualitative, with data obtained through interviews and documentation, and the analysis is conducted inductively. The research results show that while the local government in Lampung has established policies for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, various challenges remain, including limited infrastructure, lack of resources, and social stigma. Policy implementation in education, employment, and social welfare shows varying degrees of progress, but there are still shortcomings in terms of facilities, budget, and active participation of persons with disabilities. To achieve more optimal inclusion, it is important to enhance collaboration with disability organizations, improve facilities and training, and involve the community in program planning and evaluation. The implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) also requires regulatory harmonization and improved data systems to ensure overall policy effectiveness.