Kebertahanan Sosial dan Ekonomi Tunanetra : Studi Pada Peran Persatuan Tunanetra Indonesia (PERTUNI) Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This study is entitled “Social and Economic Resilience of Persons with Visual Impairment: A Study on the Role of the Indonesian Blind Union (PERTUNI) of North Sumatra”. This research is motivated by the persistent social and economic vulnerability experienced by persons with visual impairment due to limited access to employment opportunities, economic resources, and structural support. In this context, disability-based organizations such as PERTUNI play an important role as social systems that support the resilience of their members. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of PERTUNI of North Sumatra in shaping the social and economic resilience of its members through the functions of Adaptation and Integration, as proposed in Talcott Parsons‟ structural functionalism theory. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation involving administrators, members, and external partners of Pertuni. The findings indicate that the Adaptation function is carried out through skills training, economic activities, and access to resources; however, these efforts have not yet been fully sustainable due to limited funding and long-term assistance. Meanwhile, the Integration function appears stronger through the formation of social solidarity, group cohesion, and collective identity among members, although challenges related to inclusivity remain. Overall, PERTUNI serves as a social space that enables persons with visual impairment to maintain their social and economic resilience amid existing structural constraints and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1, 8 and 10.