Celebrating World Disability Day with Empowerment

Unveiling Hidden Stories on International Day of Persons with Disabilities:

World Disability Day, also known as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), is observed on December 3rd every year. The day aims to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity and accessibility.

History: The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 3rd as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992. The day was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons, which was adopted by the General Assembly in 1982.

Objectives: The main objectives of World Disability Day are:

• To promote the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.
• To raise awareness about the issues faced by people with disabilities.
• To encourage governments, organizations, and individuals to take action to create a more inclusive and accessible society.

Theme: Each year, the United Nations chooses a theme for World Disability Day. The theme for 2022 was "Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world". The theme for 2023 is "Innovation for inclusive, equitable and sustainable development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world".

Activities: To mark World Disability Day, various activities are organized globally, including:

• Awareness campaigns to promote the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.
• Conferences and seminars to discuss issues related to disability and inclusivity.
• Workshops and training programs to promote accessibility and inclusive practices.
• Cultural events, such as art exhibitions, music performances, and film screenings, to showcase the talents of people with disabilities.

Importance: World Disability Day is an important occasion to recognize the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities. It also serves as a reminder of the need to create a more inclusive and accessible society, where people with disabilities can participate fully and equally.

You can participate in World Disability Day by:

• Sharing information and resources about disability and inclusivity on social media.
• Supporting organizations that work for the rights and empowerment of people with disabilities.
• Participating in local events and activities that promote accessibility and inclusivity.
• Advocating for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

By working together, we can create a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone.

Highlights of World Disability Day: 

Here are some highlights of World Disability Day:

Key Messages:

• Inclusion and Accessibility: World Disability Day emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and accessible environments that allow people with disabilities to participate fully and equally.
• Empowerment and Participation: The day highlights the need to empower people with disabilities to participate in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and decision-making.
• Breaking Barriers: World Disability Day aims to break down barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing opportunities and services.
• Promoting Rights and Dignity: The day promotes the rights and dignity of people with disabilities, recognizing their contributions and achievements.

Statistics:

• 1 Billion People: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 billion people worldwide live with a disability.
• 80% Unemployed: In many countries, up to 80% of people with disabilities are unemployed.
• 50% Education: In some countries, only 50% of children with disabilities attend school.

Achievements:

• United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD): Adopted in 2006, the CRPD is an international treaty that sets out the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities.
• Accessible Infrastructure: Many countries have made significant progress in creating accessible infrastructure, such as wheelchair-accessible buildings and public transportation.
• Disability-Inclusive Education: There has been an increase in disability-inclusive education initiatives, which aim to provide equal access to education for children with disabilities.

Challenges:

• Stigma and Discrimination: People with disabilities still face stigma and discrimination in many parts of the world.
• Lack of Accessible Services: Many people with disabilities lack access to essential services, such as healthcare and education.
• Inadequate Funding: Disability programs and services often receive inadequate funding, which can limit their effectiveness.

Global Celebrations:

• United Nations Headquarters: The United Nations Headquarters in New York City hosts a flagship event to mark World Disability Day.
• Country-Level Celebrations: Many countries host their own events, including conferences, exhibitions, and cultural performances.
• Social Media Campaigns: Social media campaigns, such as #IDPD and #DisabilityDay, raise awareness and promote the rights of people with disabilities.

Overall, World Disability Day is an important occasion to recognize the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities, while also highlighting the need for greater inclusion and accessibility.

Theme of International World Disability Day: 

The theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) varies from year to year, but it is always focused on promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. Here are some of the past themes of IDPD:

• 2022: "Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world"
• 2021: "Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world"
• 2020: "Not all disabilities are visible"
• 2019: "Promoting the participation of persons with disabilities and their leadership: taking action on the 2030 Development Agenda"
• 2018: "Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality"
• 2017: "Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all"
• 2016: "Achieving 17 Goals for the Future We Want"
• 2015: "Inclusion matters: access and empowerment for people of all abilities"
• 2014: "Sustainable Development: The Promise of Technology"
• 2013: "Break Barriers, Open Doors: for an inclusive society for all"

The theme for 2023 is: "Innovation for inclusive, equitable and sustainable development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world"

The theme for 2024 is not yet announced.

The theme of IDPD is chosen by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) in consultation with the International Disability and Development Consortium (IDDC) and other stakeholders. The theme is meant to inspire and guide the activities and events that take place on IDPD, and to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities.

History of World Disability Day:

The history of World Disability Day, also known as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), dates back to 1981 when the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the International Year of Disabled Persons. Here is a brief history of World Disability Day:

1981: International Year of Disabled Persons

• The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 1981 as the International Year of Disabled Persons to raise awareness about the needs and rights of people with disabilities. The year was marked by a series of events and activities around the world, including conferences, exhibitions, and cultural performances.

1982: World Programme of Action

• The United Nations General Assembly adopted the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons in 1982. The program outlined a comprehensive approach to promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, including education, employment, and social services.

1992: International Day of Persons with Disabilities

• The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 3 as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992. The day was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the World Programme of Action.

1993-2006: Early Years

• In the early years, IDPD was marked by a series of events and activities around the world, including conferences, exhibitions, and cultural performances. The day was also used to raise awareness about the needs and rights of people with disabilities.

2006: Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

• The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2006. The convention sets out the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities and has been ratified by over 180 countries.

2010s: Growing Momentum

• In the 2010s, IDPD gained momentum as a global event, with more countries and organizations participating in the celebrations. The day was marked by a series of events and activities, including conferences, exhibitions, and cultural performances.

2020s: COVID-19 and Digital Inclusion

• In 2020, IDPD was marked by a series of virtual events and activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The day highlighted the need for digital inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities.

Today

• Today, IDPD is celebrated in over 100 countries around the world. The day is marked by a series of events and activities, including conferences, exhibitions, and cultural performances. IDPD is an important occasion to raise awareness about the needs and rights of people with disabilities and to promote inclusion and accessibility.

Overall, the history of World Disability Day reflects the growing recognition of the importance of promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. The day has evolved over the years to become a global event that celebrates the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities.

Significance of World Disability Day:

World Disability Day, also known as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), is a significant day that aims to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. Here are some of the significance of World Disability Day:

• Raising Awareness: World Disability Day raises awareness about the needs and rights of people with disabilities. It highlights the importance of creating a more inclusive and accessible society for everyone.
• Promoting Inclusion: The day promotes inclusion and participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and social activities.
• Empowering People with Disabilities: World Disability Day empowers people with disabilities to take control of their lives and to demand their rights.
• Breaking Stereotypes: The day helps to break down stereotypes and stigma surrounding disability, and promotes a more positive and inclusive attitude towards people with disabilities.
• Advocating for Change: World Disability Day advocates for change and pushes for policies and practices that promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities.
• Celebrating Achievements: The day celebrates the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, and recognizes their potential and abilities.
• Creating a More Accessible World: World Disability Day promotes the creation of a more accessible world, where people with disabilities can participate fully and equally.
• Supporting Families and Caregivers: The day also supports families and caregivers of people with disabilities, and recognizes the important role they play in promoting the well-being and inclusion of people with disabilities.
• Promoting Disability-Inclusive Development: World Disability Day promotes disability-inclusive development, and recognizes the importance of including people with disabilities in all aspects of development, including education, employment, and healthcare.
• United Nations Recognition: The day is recognized by the United Nations, and is an important part of the UN's efforts to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities.

Impact of World Disability Day

The impact of World Disability Day is significant, and includes:

• Increased awareness and understanding: The day raises awareness and understanding of the needs and rights of people with disabilities.
• Improved inclusion and accessibility: The day promotes inclusion and accessibility, and encourages governments and organizations to create more inclusive and accessible environments.
• Empowerment of people with disabilities: The day empowers people with disabilities to take control of their lives and to demand their rights.
• Advocacy and policy change: The day advocates for change and pushes for policies and practices that promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities.
• Celebration of achievements: The day celebrates the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, and recognizes their potential and abilities.

Overall, World Disability Day is a significant day that promotes the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, and advocates for a more inclusive and accessible society for everyone.

What is Disability and its types?

Disability is a condition or barrier that affects a person's ability to participate fully in society. It can be physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental in nature. Disability can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, injury, illness, or environmental factors.

Types of Disabilities

There are several types of disabilities, including:

• Physical Disability: A physical disability is a condition that affects a person's physical body, such as:
• Mobility impairments (e.g., paralysis, amputation)
• Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., arthritis, muscular dystrophy)
• Sensory impairments (e.g., blindness, deafness)
• Sensory Disability: A sensory disability is a condition that affects a person's senses, such as:
• Visual impairment (e.g., blindness, low vision)
• Hearing impairment (e.g., deafness, hard of hearing)
• Speech and language disorders (e.g., stuttering, apraxia)
• Cognitive Disability: A cognitive disability is a condition that affects a person's thinking and learning abilities, such as:
• Intellectual disability (e.g., Down syndrome, intellectual disability)
• Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia)
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Mental Health Disability: A mental health disability is a condition that affects a person's mental well-being, such as:
• Mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder)
• Anxiety disorders (e.g., anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder)
• Psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder)
• Neurological Disability: A neurological disability is a condition that affects a person's nervous system, such as:
• Stroke and brain injury
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Chronic Illness Disability: A chronic illness disability is a condition that affects a person's overall health and well-being, such as:
• Diabetes
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Chronic pain
• Developmental Disability: A developmental disability is a condition that affects a person's development and growth, such as:
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Cerebral palsy
• Spina bifida
• Acquired Disability: An acquired disability is a condition that is acquired through injury or illness, such as:
• Spinal cord injury
• Traumatic brain injury
• Amputation

Other Types of Disabilities

There are also other types of disabilities, including:

• Hidden Disability: A hidden disability is a condition that is not immediately apparent, such as:
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Fibromyalgia
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Invisible Disability: An invisible disability is a condition that is not visible, such as:
• Mental health conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety)
• Chronic pain
• Neurological conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease)
• Temporary Disability: A temporary disability is a condition that is temporary in nature, such as:
• Broken bones
• Surgery recovery
• Illness (e.g., flu, pneumonia)

It's worth noting that these categories are not mutually exclusive, and many people may experience multiple types of disabilities.

What are the rights of disabled persons across the world?

The rights of disabled persons across the world are protected by various international laws, conventions, and national regulations. Here are some key rights and milestones:

• United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD): Adopted in 2006, this convention is the most comprehensive international treaty on disability rights. It recognizes the rights of persons with disabilities to:
• Equality and non-discrimination
• Accessibility and participation in society
• Education, employment, and healthcare
• Freedom from exploitation, violence, and abuse
• Freedom of movement and nationality
• Participation in cultural and recreational activities
• International Bill of Rights: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966), and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1966) all recognize the rights of persons with disabilities.
• National laws and regulations: Many countries have enacted laws and regulations to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, such as:
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States (1990)
• The Disability Discrimination Act in the United Kingdom (1995)
• The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund in Australia (1980)
• The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act in Canada (2005)
• Key rights: Some of the key rights of disabled persons include:
• Accessibility: The right to access buildings, transportation, and public spaces
• Communication: The right to communicate in one's own language and to receive information in accessible formats
• Education: The right to education, including inclusive education
• Employment: The right to employment and equal opportunities in the workplace
• Healthcare: The right to healthcare, including access to medical services and equipment
• Participation: The right to participate in cultural, recreational, and social activities
• Protection from exploitation and abuse: The right to protection from exploitation, violence, and abuse
• Implementation and challenges: While significant progress has been made in recognizing the rights of disabled persons, implementation and enforcement of these rights remain a challenge in many countries. Barriers to accessibility, discriminatory attitudes, and inadequate resources continue to hinder the full realization of these rights.

Examples of countries with notable disability rights laws and initiatives include:

• Australia: The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for disability support services
• Canada: The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) aims to make Ontario accessible by 2025
• Germany: The Disability Equality Act (2002) promotes equal opportunities for persons with disabilities
• India: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) recognizes the rights of persons with disabilities and provides for their empowerment
• United Kingdom: The Equality Act (2010) protects persons with disabilities from discrimination and promotes equal opportunities

These examples demonstrate the progress made in recognizing and protecting the rights of disabled persons worldwide. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that these rights are fully realized and implemented.

How to Help the People With Disabilities?

Helping people with disabilities requires a combination of understanding, empathy, and action. Here are some ways to make a positive impact:

General Tips

• Treat them with respect and dignity: People with disabilities are not defined by their disability. Treat them with the same respect and dignity as anyone else.
• Use inclusive language: Use language that is respectful and inclusive, avoiding derogatory terms or labels.
• Be patient and understanding: People with disabilities may need more time or assistance to complete tasks. Be patient and understanding.
• Ask for permission: Before assisting someone with a disability, ask for their permission to ensure you're respecting their autonomy.
• Focus on abilities: Emphasize the person's abilities, rather than their disability.

Practical Ways to Help

• Volunteer: Volunteer with organizations that support people with disabilities, such as advocacy groups, support services, or recreational programs.
• Donate: Donate to organizations that provide services and support to people with disabilities.
• Advocate: Advocate for policies and laws that promote accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.
• Educate yourself: Learn about different disabilities, their effects, and the challenges people with disabilities face.
• Be an ally: Be an ally to people with disabilities by speaking up when you witness discriminatory behavior or language.

Disability-Specific Support

Visual impairments:

• Offer to read text or labels aloud.
• Provide Braille or large print materials.
• Be mindful of obstacles and clear pathways.

Hearing impairments:

• Use clear and simple language.
• Face the person when speaking.
• Use visual aids like sign language or written notes.

Mobility impairments:

• Provide wheelchair-accessible routes and facilities.
• Offer assistance with mobility aids.
• Be patient and allow extra time for navigation.

Intellectual or developmental disabilities:

• Use clear and simple language.
• Provide visual aids and supports.
• Be patient and understanding.

Mental health disabilities:

• Listen actively and empathetically.
• Provide resources and support services.
• Encourage open conversation and reduce stigma.

Creating Accessible Environments

• Physical accessibility: Ensure that buildings, public spaces, and transportation are wheelchair-accessible and free from obstacles.
• Digital accessibility: Ensure that websites, apps, and digital materials are accessible to people with disabilities.
• Communication accessibility: Provide alternative formats for communication, such as Braille, large print, or audio descriptions.

Employment and Education

• Hire people with disabilities: Provide equal opportunities for employment and promote inclusive workplaces.
• Support inclusive education: Ensure that educational institutions provide accessible materials, accommodations, and support services.
• Provide training and resources: Offer training and resources to help employees and educators support people with disabilities.

By following these tips and taking action, you can make a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities and promote a more inclusive and accessible society.