Islamabad (Web Desk): The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is being observed today (Wednesday) across the world, including in Pakistan, as countries renew their commitment to supporting people with disabilities and ensuring their rightful place in society.
The day serves as a global reminder to deepen understanding about disability issues, encourage respect for the rights of persons with disabilities, and promote their meaningful involvement in every aspect of life.
This year’s theme is “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”
It reflects the pledge world leaders made at the Second World Summit for Social Development to create societies that are fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable. Their renewed commitment also highlights that real social development can only be achieved when every segment of the population is included and empowered.
The observance has its roots in 1981, when the UN General Assembly (UNGA) established a day dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of disabled individuals.
Originally known as the International Day of Disabled Persons, its name was later updated to adopt person-first language, emphasizing the humanity of individuals before any disability.
Marked annually on December 3, the United Nations (UN)-recognized International Day of Persons with Disabilities focuses on safeguarding the well-being and rights of persons with disabilities at all levels.
It also seeks to raise awareness about the challenges they encounter in political, social, economic, and cultural spaces, and the need to remove barriers that limit their participation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) joins the United Nations (UN) in commemorating the day each year, underscoring the urgency of creating environments where people with disabilities can live without discrimination, take part in society on an equal footing, and face no obstacles in their daily lives.
Over the years, the day has grown in significance as a platform to highlight the experiences of disabled people, celebrate their achievements, and push for a world that upholds dignity, equality, and inclusion for all.