Beyond access: rethinking participation and inclusion in Indonesia’s disability media

This practice note examines how disability-led digital media initiatives in Indonesia redefine participation and inclusion beyond mere access. While the Internet enables people with disabilities to voice their experiences, digital inequality and limited resources continue to hinder engagement. Based on fieldwork with six platforms, Kartunet, Solider, Difapedia, Newsdifabel, Kamibijak, and Radio Braille Surabaya, the study highlights challenges of sustainability, accessibility, and capacity building. True participation requires inclusive design, financial stability, and recognition of disabilities as social issues. The note concludes by recommending collaborative models and inclusive policy frameworks to strengthen disability-led media and inform digital-empowerment efforts across the Global South.