The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was proclaimed at the 47th session of the UN General Assembly in 1992. UN Secretary-General: People with Disabilities Are Peacemakers and Agents of Change Human Rights
This year, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that we need their leadership more than ever. This was stated by the UN Secretary-General in his message on Tuesday, dedicated to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was proclaimed at the 47th session of the UN General Assembly in 1992. At the same time, the General Assembly called on all States and international organizations to cooperate in observing this day on December 3rd each year.
“People with disabilities are already disproportionately affected by the crises that devastate our world – conflicts, climate disasters, poverty, inequality – because of persistent discrimination, social exclusion and barriers to accessing basic rights and services,” António Guterres noted in his message today. – However, they are often denied the right to contribute to overcoming these crises.”
The UN chief recalled that, as part of the recently adopted Pact for the Future, countries have committed to correcting injustices against people with disabilities of all ages – “for the sake of present and future generations.”
This task, António Guterres noted, includes recognizing the fundamental role of people with disabilities in shaping the future of digital and assistive technologies and defending their rightful place in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
“In every community, people with disabilities are peacemakers and agents of change. They also set an example for others,” António Guterres emphasized. – Let us not only today, but every day, act together with people with disabilities to achieve an inclusive and sustainable future for all people.”