Community-based rehabilitation in Jordan: challenges to achieving occupational justice

This paper presents theories of occupational and social justice and applies the theoretical tenets to a community-based rehabilitation (CBR) program in a Palestinian refugee camp in Jordan.

The example of building a playground for children with disabilities, and other aspects of the social, political and cultural context in Jordan are described in relation to the theory and practice of CBR, occupational and social justice.

Key concepts are explained, analyzed and applied, namely occupational justice, social justice, occupational form and occupational deprivation (a strong determinant of occupational injustice), all of which were relevant in the refugee camp where children with disabilities were deprived of resources and chances to play.

Grounding CBR in an occupational justice framework offers justification and inspiration for occupational therapy in similar settings deprived of resources and opportunities wherein both individuals and communities could benefit.

Occupational deprivation, such as that seen in refugee camps, is associated with poor mental health and physical frailty. CBR in refugee camps can lead to both occupational justice and social justice for persons with disabilities. Disability laws and legislation must be implemented, not just stated on paper, in order to address the rights of persons with disabilities and social justice.