Global Deaf Research Institute (GDRI)

12% of deaf Ecuadorians need medical treatment to function in daily life.

Visual description:
This image is a research graphic highlighting healthcare access in Ecuador. At the top, a blue overlay contains a quote from a Deaf participant in Ecuador:

GDRI is excited to announce the creation of the Knowledge to Impact Pathway for our Deaf Voices Counted program, our commitment to deaf-led, community-driven research and advocacy.

27% of deaf Ecuadorians do not have access to the internet.

Exciting news! The Guidelines to Make Surveys on Individuals and Households More Accessible by the United Nations Statistical Division (UNSD) are now available.

Our research shows that many deaf Ecuadorians are missing critical government updates and don't have a safety plan in place.

We are excited to share that the first diabetes‑information website in American Sign Language (ASL) has been launched. Developed by researchers and clinicians at University of Utah Health, the site makes it easier for Deaf and hard‑of‑hearing people to understand and manage diabetes.

Research shows that 56% of deaf Ecuadorians do not have access to healthy food.

Global Deaf Research Institute (GDRI) and University of Utah contributed to research on diabetes technology for deaf people. They examined how diabetes technology fails to meet the accessibility needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) people.

Research shows that 75% of deaf Ecuadorians do not have enough energy to meet the demands of daily life.

GDRI will participate in a webinar on guidance on intersectionality. The speakers will discuss how intersectionality shows how multiple identities intersect to shape lived experiences, and how these insights can be used to strengthen data systems and inform intersectional approaches in their work.

In light of recent events, it’s more important than ever to come together and support one another as a community. Deaf communities are being impacted by ICE, and their experiences must be documented so we can better understand how to mobilize and protect our community.

Intern Testimonial: Ciara Luttrell

Ciara has been interning with us since May. She is here to share her experiences in analyzing data and contributing to projects that promote accessible and equal treatment for deaf people worldwide. We are truly grateful to have her on our team!

Research findings show that 86% of deaf Ecuadorians are not satisfied with their health, highlighting significant barriers to accessible medical care.

A report highlighting the financial struggles of deaf Ecuadorians, revealing that 93% of them do not have enough income to meet their needs.

Battery access shouldn’t be a barrier, yet 84% of deaf Ecuadorians can’t get the replacements they need.

As we entered the new year with many exciting updates and objectives, we first reflected on our accomplishments in 2025. The end-of-year report highlights our proudest work in ensuring full access and an improved quality of life for deaf people.

Education access remains unequal, here’s how deaf Ecuadorians' school levels break down.

Happy New Year!

GDRI is excited to have support from All Hands On as Levi is cycling around Taiwan for 3 weeks to raise funds and awareness for us. Please follow him on this adventure! We are grateful for his commitment and would appreciate your support as well.

We're thrilled to announce that the Global Deaf Research Institute (GDRI) and Deaf Worlds (DDW) have formed a partnership to ensure equal access to resources and opportunities for deaf people around the world!

77% of deaf Ecuadorians don’t trust interpreters.

Eight years. That’s the average delay between hearing loss and getting access to sign language or hearing aids in Ecuador.

91% of Deaf Ecuadorians are unsatisfied with their care, many lack accommodations, and over half can’t afford it.

Access to information is essential. Yet, 88% of Deaf Ecuadorians don’t have access to the information they need for daily life.

73% of Deaf Ecuadorians say there aren’t enough interpreters, and 85% feel many aren’t qualified or clear.

86% of Deaf Ecuadorians who don’t know sign language want to learn Ecuadorian Sign Language (LSEC) but access and affordability remain major barriers.

Most Deaf Ecuadorians lack the accommodations they need - 88% in primary, 89% in secondary, and 84% in higher education.

“Sometimes we have to take 2 or 3 buses just to get to a deaf school.” – Deaf participant, Ecuador. 86% of deaf Ecuadorians are NOT satisfied with transportation. Nearly half say it’s NOT affordable. Access shouldn't depend on your wallet or location.

Deaf Ecuadorians earn a median of $320/month, yet 46% live below the poverty line. We must push for greater economic inclusion and opportunity.

Did you know that 38% of deaf people in Ecuador are unemployed or in unpaid roles? A participant said it best: “Support centers can train them so they can work.” Let’s build a more inclusive future!"

50% of Deaf Ecuadorians have been misdiagnosed or misunderstood in healthcare due to communication barriers.