Multiple-discrimination of disabled children with a migrant background

This paper focuses on the theme of multiple-discrimination of disabled children with a migrant background. It aims to provide an overview on the meaning of multiple-discrimination in relation to migration and children’s disability. Research into this fairly new theme began only at the beginning of the new century, and while literature concerning teaching, welcoming and inclusion strategies for non-native students, as well as disability, is very broad, the combination of the two subjects has not yet seen significant development. For this reason, starting from a literature review of studies, international documents, policy guidelines and results of previous research, a possible tool and an inclusive strategy to tackle the issue are reported here. The paper attempts to provide material for support teachers, professionals, researchers and students interested in the right to non-discrimination, and the perspective of equality and inclusion. The first part of the paper provides a brief summary of the meaning of the term multiple-discrimination. Thereafter the tool to identify barriers for inclusion, resources and aids in different sectors of life is described, represented by a Contextual Map developed adopting a holistic approach. The second part presents a research project of “inclusive school” as a possible strategy to tackle this issue, promoted by the Municipality of Bologna and implemented in collaboration with the Department of Educational Studies of the University of Bologna. Through the suggested strategy and tool we have aimed to contribute to the better understanding of this phenomenon, considering the different dimensions of the issue.