In news

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is annually observed on 3 December to promote the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities.

Theme

“Building Back Better"

Highlights

• On this Day WHO joins partners to celebrate "a day for all".
• This theme reflects a growing understanding that disability is part of the human condition.
• Almost everyone will be temporarily or permanently impaired at some point in life.
• Despite this, few countries have adequate mechanisms in place to respond fully to the needs of people with disabilities.

History

The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons was proclaimed in 1992 by United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3.
It aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

Key messages

• Disability is part of the human experience.
• WHO recognizes that a world where all people attain the highest possible standard of health and well-being is only possible if health systems are inclusive of people with disability.
• People with disability have been amongst the most vulnerable populations during the current COVID-19 outbreak due to many health, social and environmental barriers, discriminatory attitudes and inaccessible infrastructure.
• The COVID-19 pandemic provides a unique opportunity to build back better our health systems so that they are more inclusive and responsive to the needs and human rights of people experiencing disability in all their diversity.
• Countries need to shift towards a service delivery system rooted in the communities, reaching out and empowering people with disability.

Source: PIB