Disability is part of being human and is integral to the human experience. It results from the interaction between health conditions such as dementia, blindness or spinal cord injury, and a range of environmental and personal factors. An estimated 1.3 billion people - or 16% of the global population - experience a significant disability today. This number is growing because of an increase in noncommunicable diseases and people living longer. Persons with disabilities are a diverse group, and factors such as sex, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, race, ethnicity and their economic situation affect their experiences in life and their health needs. Persons with disabilities die earlier, have poorer health, and experience more limitations in everyday functioning than others.
The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons was proclaimed in 1992, by the United Nations General Assembly resolution.It is celebrated every year on 3rd December.
The day is about promoting the rights and well- being of persons with disabilities at every level of society and development, and to raise awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life. WHO organizes an annual IDPD event to educate the public, raise awareness, advocate for political will and resources, and celebrate WHO's achievements at Its headquarters in Geneva.
This International Day of Persons with Disabilities provides us with an opportunity to shed light on the challenges faced by people with disabilities and those that care for them and to foster inclusivity within our communities . It serves as call to action for understanding, breaking barriers and celebrating the richness that diversity brings to our communities.
Leo Hiruni Aththanayaka
First Year
Faculty of Arts
