| dc.description.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. | en_US |
