International Day of Persons with Disabilities Observed

“Experience shows that when persons with disabilities are empowered to participate and lead the process of development, their entire community benefits, as their involvement creates opportunities for everyone – with or without a disability.”

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities will took place on Saturday (3 December), aiming to promote a better understand of disability issues in society.

The day intended to focus on integrating those with a disability in every aspect of the political, social, economic and culture life of their communities. The annual observance of the event has been promoted by the United Nations since 1992.

According to the UN, people with disabilities make up an estimated 15% of the world’s population, and an estimated one-fifth of those encounter significant difficulties in their personal lives due to stigmas and discrimination. They remain largely marginalized, disproportionately, poorer, frequently unemployed and have higher rates of mortality.

The UN’s website states: “Experience shows that when persons with disabilities are empowered to participate and lead the process of development, their entire community benefits, as their involvement creates opportunities for everyone – with or without a disability.”

The Paralympic Movement has been a driving force in creating new and exciting opportunities for those with a disability through sport. As a result, para-sport changes the way the public perceives people with an impairment and focuses on their abilities rather than disabilities.

For more information visit the United Nation's website here.