Background:
The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was proclaimed in 1992 by United Nations; and it has been globally and annually observed on 3 December since 1992. The main purpose of IDPD is 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.
Each year, the IDPD has a specific theme that focuses on a particular aspect of disability rights and inclusive development. The objectives of IDPD include:
Promoting accessibility, inclusion, equality, and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Increasing awareness about disability issues and mobilizing support for inclusive development.
Promoting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
The IDPD is observed globally, with various events and activities organized by governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
The IDPD is an important observance day that highlights the need to promote the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusive development and the need to ensure that persons with disabilities are fully and effectively participating in society.
Theme of this Year 2024:
“Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Futures”.
This theme focuses on amplifying the leadership of PWDs, recognizing the critical role they play in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Key Messages of the Theme:
Persons with disabilities are leaders and Change-Maker: Persons with disabilities have the right to participate in leadership positions and contribute to decision-making processes.
Inclusive leadership is essential: Inclusive leadership is critical for promoting sustainable and inclusive development, and it also fosters diversity, innovation, and social justice.
Accessibility and Inclusion are Essential: Accessibility and disability-inclusion are essential for ensuring that persons with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and resources, as well as for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Empowerment for Sustainable Development: Empowering persons with disabilities ensures equitable and sustainable development.
Partnership and collaboration: Partnership and collaboration between organizations of persons with disabilities, governments, and other stakeholders are essential for promoting inclusive leadership.
Objectives of the Theme:
Empowerment: To promote the empowerment of persons with disabilities as leaders to take on leadership roles in various sectors, including politics, business, and civil society.
Inclusive Leadership: To Promote inclusive leadership that values diversity and promotes equal opportunities for all.
Accessible and Inclusive Infrastructure and Technology: To promote accessible and inclusive infrastructure and technology, ensuring that persons with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and resources.
Sustainable Development: To contribute to sustainable development by promoting inclusive and accessible development initiatives.
Participation: To promote and increase the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes and leadership positions, ensuring that their perspectives and experiences are represented.
Strategies for Implementation
To achieve the objectives of this theme, the following strategies can be employed:
Leadership development programs: Leadership development programs can be established to empower persons with disabilities to take on leadership roles.
Mentorship programs: Mentorship programs can be established to provide guidance and support to persons with disabilities in leadership positions.
Inclusive decision-making processes: Inclusive decision-making processes can be established to ensure that persons with disabilities are represented and their perspectives, interests, needs are taken into account.
Accessible and inclusive infrastructure and technology: Accessible and inclusive infrastructure and technology can be promoted to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and resources.
Awareness-raising campaigns: Awareness-raising campaigns can be conducted to promote the importance of inclusive leadership and the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Expected Outcomes:
Increased recognition of persons with disabilities as leaders.
Enhanced participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
Strengthened partnerships between organizations of persons with disabilities, governments, and stakeholders.
Improved accessibility and inclusivity in policies, programs, and infrastructure.
Planned Activities for the Commemoration of IDPD 2024:
Events and conferences.
Disability summit
Lectures presentation
Press conferences
Advocacy visits
Panel discussions
Social media campaigns
Leadership development programs for persons with disabilities
Disability-inclusive policy programs.
Art and cultural performance and exhibitions showcasing disability talent.
Target Audience for the Commemoration of IDPD 2024:
Persons with disabilities, and their organizations.
Governments and policymakers.
Civil society organizations.
Private sector entities.
Media and general public.
Partnerships for the Commemoration of IDPD 2024:
United Nations Agencies.
Global, Regional and International Organizations
National and Local Organizations
Disabled People Organizations (DPOs)
Governments and Public Agencies
Academic Institutions
Private Sector Companies.
Conclusion
The IDPD 2024 theme - “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Futures”, highlights the importance of empowering persons with disabilities to take on leadership roles in promoting inclusive and sustainable development. By promoting inclusive leadership, increasing the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes, and promoting accessible and inclusive infrastructure and technology, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
