Published By: Nibandh Vinod
Last Updated: December 03, 2023, 06:00 IST
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on December 3. (Image: Shutterstock)
International Day of Persons with Disabilities seeks to shed light on the disparities, both political and socio-economic, faced by people with disabilities.
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 2023: Every year on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed to spotlight the rights and well-being of individuals with special needs. It seeks to shed light on the disparities, both political and socio-economic, faced by people with disabilities. Collaboratively acknowledged by the World Health Organization and the United Nations, the day underscores the significance of securing the rights of specially-abled individuals so that they can participate freely and efficiently in society with others.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023: Theme
As per the official website of the United Nations, the theme of this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is “United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with, and by persons with disabilities.”
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: History and Significance
In 1992, the United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Persons with Disabilities through Resolution 47/3. This day holds paramount importance as it highlights the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, ranging from unequal opportunities to discrimination and a lack of empathy. Globally, panel discussions and cultural events are organised to advocate for their rights and amplify their perspectives.
WHO organises an annual IDPD event at its office in Geneva to educate the public, increase awareness, push for political will and resources, and celebrate their accomplishments in the sector. The goals fall under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023: Quotes
- “On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I call on the entire international community to mobilise so that persons with disabilities may actively contribute to the response – to the crisis and to the generation of new possibilities”- Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.
- “Being disabled should not mean being disqualified from having access to every aspect of life.” Emma Thompson
- “As a disabled man, let my life be a reflection of the endless amount of ability that exists in each and everyone of us.”- Robert M. Hensel
- “It is a waste of time to be angry about my disability. One has to get on with life and I haven’t done badly. People won’t have time for you if you are always angry or complaining.” –Stephen Hawking
- “I was slightly brain damaged at birth, and I want people like me to see that they shouldn’t let a disability get in the way. I want to raise awareness – I want to turn my disability into ability.”- Susan Boyle
