In the last few years, discussion has begun in developing countries concerning the need to adapt to these changing circumstances. At the same time, we are challenged as never before with the task of inclusion , reaching those who in bygone eras constituted the bypassed. Indeed, it is upon the twin notions of inclusion and participation that many base their aspirations for a just and equitable world. The present book addresses this question. The term refers to an individual's ability to perform tasks which are necessary to survive and prosper.
Human capacity has both personal and social relevance.
Capable individuals are able to access and use opportunities available in the environment to secure the conditions necessary for themselves and their families to realize their innate potential. Capable societies , in turn, are those which can equitably maximize the participation opportunities available to their citizens. Before developing these concepts further, however, it is useful to define the terms participation opportunities, available participation opportunities, and accessed participation opportunities. Participation opportunities represent the potential productive interactions in which individuals can engage that allow them to contribute to the development of their nations, communities, and families. Participation opportunities span the course of a person's life cycle and evolve accordingly.