In May 2024, IDAMS completed an analysis focused on marginalized youth participation in food systems in southern Madagascar. IDAMS identified marginalized youth and collected data among internally displaced youth, youth with disabilities, youth from non-dominant ethnic groups, and youth with albinism. The research identified the multiple social, economic, and structural barriers to their improved nutrition and economic empowerment. Based on the findings, IDAMS made multiple recommendations to USAID/Madagascar including expanding marginalized youth participation in government economic development programs, supporting youth nutrition champions, and building their financial literacy and employability and entrepreneurial skills.
During 2024, IDAMS also conducted two studies on disability inclusion in USAID global health and humanitarian programs. These studies identified barriers to participation of persons with disabilities and made recommendations. Barriers included USAID and partner gaps in understanding the diverse needs of persons with disabilities, challenges in accessing services, and societal stigma. Through two webinars for more than 100 USAID staff members, IDAMS shared its findings and recommendations, including creating and using practical tools that reinforce good practices, building knowledge and capacity among USAID staff and implementing partners, hiring more people with lived experience, working with organizations of persons with disabilities, and improving data collection.