International Day of People with Disabilities

International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPD) is an annual observance celebrated worldwide on December 3rd. It serves as a significant moment to raise awareness, promote understanding and celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities in various aspects of life. This day aims to foster inclusivity, advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities and work towards a more accessible and equitable society for all. 

The history of International Day of People with Disabilities traces back to 1992 when the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 3rd as the International Day of Disabled Persons. The UN recognized the necessity to address the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and acknowledged the need for concerted efforts to ensure their full and equal participation in society. 

One pivotal aspect of this day is its theme, which changes annually, focusing on different aspects related to disability rights, accessibility and inclusivity. This year’s theme is “United in action to rescue and achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) for, with and by persons with disabilities.” The UN sets global SDGs for vulnerable populations, and they recently found that the world is off track on meeting SDGs for people with disabilities. This IDPD acknowledges the obstacles people with disabilities face and seeks to bring people with disabilities more into the discussion on how to meet worldwide goals. 

Other themes have ranged from "Empowerment and Integration of Persons with Disabilities in the Mainstream of Development" to "Building Back Better: Toward a Disability-Inclusive, Accessible, and Sustainable Post-COVID-19 World." These themes highlight the evolving nature of challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and emphasize the need for progressive action to overcome barriers to inclusion. 

IDPD aims to break down societal barriers and stereotypes by promoting a better understanding of disability issues. It encourages communities, organizations, governments and individuals to engage in activities that promote inclusivity, such as workshops, forums, art exhibitions and awareness campaigns. These activities serve to educate people on the diverse experiences of individuals with disabilities and promote a culture of respect, acceptance and accessibility. 

Another significant aspect of International Day of People with Disabilities is its emphasis on advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities. This includes advocating for legislative measures that protect their rights, ensuring accessibility in public spaces and facilities and fostering employment opportunities that are inclusive and non-discriminatory. The day serves as a platform to address challenges and call for action toward creating a world where individuals with disabilities can fully participate and thrive. 

In essence, International Day of People with Disabilities serves as a beacon of hope, unity and empowerment. It celebrates the resilience, strength and unique abilities of people with disabilities, fostering a global movement toward a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone, regardless of ability, has equal opportunities and rights. 

The annual commemoration of the IDPD will take place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on December 1, 2023. You can watch the live webcast on December 1 at 10 a.m. by following this link: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1h/k1h0r7nh1w.