Today, we join the global community in observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day dedicated to promoting understanding, advocating for dignity, and reinforcing the importance of inclusion in all aspects of society.
This year’s theme, “Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” highlights the importance of building communities where persons with disabilities are fully included, not just accommodated. It reminds us that inclusion becomes even more urgent when we look at the realities many persons with disabilities experience today.
Did you know? (From WHO Factsheet)
- 1.3 billion people (1 in 6) live with significant disabilities.
- They are at twice the risk of developing major health conditions.
- Many die up to 20 years earlier than non-disabled individuals.
- Transportation is 15 times harder to access.
- Stigma, discrimination, poverty, and barriers in education, work, and health services create major inequities.
These facts show why this year’s theme matters. Building disability-inclusive societies means making sure that everyone is included and empowered, not left behind. To achieve real social development, we must work together on reducing poverty, providing decent and productive employment, and ensuring full social integration—goals that can only be reached when all people have equal opportunities and support.
By supporting disability-inclusive policies and removing barriers, we help create fairer systems and stronger communities. These efforts also move us closer to achieving several global goals, reducing inequalities (#SDG10), ensuring good health and well-being (#SDG3), providing quality education for all (#SDG4), and promoting decent work and economic growth (#SDG8).
Let’s work together for a world where everyone belongs and everyone thrives.





























