Dr Kanika Gupta
Every year December 3 is observed as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons on December 3 was proclaimed in 1992, by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
The primary program for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the UN Headquarters in New York includes the opening, panel discussions, and cultural events. Member States, civil society organizations, and the private sector are encouraged to organize their own events, fostering awareness and advocating for the rights and perspectives of persons with disabilities globally.
The theme for the 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities is “United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with, and by persons with disabilities.”
The 1.3 billion individuals with disabilities worldwide are disproportionately affected by this slow advancement. They continue to face exclusion from public goods and services, coupled with heightened levels of discrimination.
Significance of the day:
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities holds immense significance as it serves as a crucial platform for raising awareness, fostering understanding, and advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Here are several reasons highlighting the importance of this observance:
Promoting Inclusivity: The day emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive society where individuals with disabilities can actively participate in all aspects of life. It calls attention to the need for accessible infrastructure, services, and opportunities to ensure that no one is left behind.
Advocacy for Human Rights: Persons with disabilities, like all individuals, have inherent human rights. This day provides a focal point for advocating for the rights and dignity of people with disabilities, promoting equal opportunities, and combating discrimination.
Raising Awareness: The International Day of Persons with Disabilities plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. It encourages societies to understand and empathize with the diverse needs of this population, fostering a more compassionate and supportive environment.
Encouraging Policy Changes: By drawing attention to the obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities, the day prompts governments and policymakers to evaluate and strengthen policies related to disability rights. It serves as a catalyst for positive legislative changes and the development of inclusive practices.
Highlighting Achievements: The day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of persons with disabilities in various fields. Recognizing their accomplishments helps break stereotypes and dispel misconceptions, promoting a more positive and inclusive narrative.
Fostering Collaboration: International Day of Persons with Disabilities encourages collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, advocacy groups, and the private sector. Working together, these entities can address common challenges, share best practices, and create a more supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.
Accelerating Progress Towards SDGs: Persons with disabilities often face unique challenges in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and other essential services. By addressing these challenges, the observance contributes to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the goal of leaving no one behind.
Empowering Individuals: The day empowers individuals with disabilities by reinforcing the idea that their voices matter and their rights should be respected. It encourages self-advocacy and empowerment, fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the disability community.
Progress and Challenges:
As we approach the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is crucial to assess the progress made in achieving an inclusive society. Unfortunately, only a fraction of SDG targets are on track, posing challenges for persons with disabilities who continue to experience exclusion, discrimination, and limited access to essential services.
The Call for Inclusion:
The theme for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities often revolves around promoting inclusion. To achieve the SDGs, it is imperative to embed disability inclusion in every dimension of development. This means addressing barriers to participation, ensuring accessible infrastructure, and eradicating discriminatory practices.
Global Initiatives:
Achieving the SDGs in collaboration with persons with disabilities requires integrating disability inclusion into every facet of development. Numerous initiatives and partnerships are making strides toward disability inclusion. Organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) collaborate to integrate persons with disabilities into various aspects of society. Examples include inclusive climate action frameworks in countries like Jordan, Somalia, and South Africa.
Data-Driven Impact:
Improving data on disability inclusion is crucial for making a significant impact. UNDP is partnering with organizations of persons with disabilities to collect data on challenges and opportunities in realizing their human rights. Six such analyses, supported by UNPRPD, have recently been launched, informing the development of new inclusion policies.
The Power of Collaboration:
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities encourages collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector. By working together, we can create environments that empower persons with disabilities, ensuring they have equal opportunities in education, employment, and all aspects of life. The envisioned brighter future in the SDGs is one that requires collaborative creation. As we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it means heeding the call of the disability movement: “Nothing about us, without us.”
Conclusion:
As we mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges that persist, and recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive world. Embracing diversity is not just a goal but a collective responsibility that, when achieved, enriches society as a whole. Through sustained efforts and awareness, we can create a future where the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of ability, are upheld and celebrated.
(The author is a Ph.D. in Human Development from University of Jammu)
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