This global observance, established by the United Nations in 1992, reminds us of the importance of creating an inclusive society that recognizes and supports the rights, contributions, and potential of people with disabilities. This year’s theme, Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future, emphasizes innovative approaches to using technology, creating adaptive workplaces, and developing inclusive community strategies to empower people with disabilities.
“One of the priorities of the global disability agenda is to advance the agency and leadership of persons with disabilities. In the past decades, persons with disabilities and organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) have already championed for the changes in their communities, and have been leading many of the community-led initiatives not only to advance their own rights and well-being, but also promoting inclusive development for instance enabling universal access to basic services by all; they have done so by taking both targeted and mainstreaming approaches to disability inclusion through, among others, consultation, data collection and analysis, and support with advocacy and accountability efforts,” the United Nations website notes.
Understanding the Significance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The day is a call to action—to challenge societal barriers, promote understanding, and advocate for the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
- An estimated 1.3 billion people experience a significant disability. This represents 16 percent of the world’s population.
- Persons with disabilities have twice the risk of developing conditions such as depression, asthma, diabetes, stroke, obesity, or poor oral health.
- Health inequities arise from unfair conditions faced by persons with disabilities, including stigma, discrimination, poverty, exclusion from education and employment, and barriers faced in the health system itself.
Breaking Down Barriers
Persons with disabilities encounter significant challenges that impact their full participation in society, including limited access to education, persistent employment discrimination, and physical and social infrastructure barriers that create substantial obstacles. 
Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach focused on creating an inclusive world through accessible infrastructure, truly inclusive education systems, and equal employment opportunities that recognize and honor all individuals’ diverse talents and capabilities, regardless of disability status.
The day features global events and activities, from forums and discussions to advocacy campaigns promoting disability rights, empowerment, and inclusion.
Each of us can actively contribute to a more inclusive society by:
- Challenging deeply ingrained stereotypes about disability;
- Advocating for meaningful accessibility in all spaces;
- Supporting disability rights;
- Listening to and intentionally amplifying the voices of people with disabilities who are the true experts of their lived experiences.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that by embracing inclusivity, we create a stronger, more equitable society that values every individual’s unique contributions and potential.
