International Day of Persons with Disabilities: The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is an annual United Nations observance held on December 3rd. It is dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The theme for 2025 is "Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress."
History
The history of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities dates back to 1981, when the United Nations declared the International Year of Disabled Persons. This was followed by the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons from 1983 to 1992, which focused on equalising opportunities, rehabilitation, and prevention of disabilities. In 1992, the UN General Assembly officially proclaimed December 3rd as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Why is International Day of Persons with Disabilities Observed?
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been observed every year to educate regarding the issues of people with disabilities. Their day-to-day struggles to get equal rights in the world. The UN is focusing on initiatives with a motive for the well-being of the people.
Understanding Disability: Types and Classification
Disabilities encompass multiple conditions of physical disabilities, sensory, mental health, and multiple issues affecting the functionality of a person.
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Physical disabilities: Mobility impairments, limb differences, and conditions affecting movement.
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Sensory disabilities: Vision loss, hearing impairments, and deaf-blindness.
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Intellectual disabilities: Affecting cognitive functioning and adaptive behaviour.
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Mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric conditions.
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Neurological conditions: Autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injuries.
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Invisible disabilities: Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions, and learning disabilities.
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Multiple disabilities: Combinations of different disability types affecting various aspects of functioning.
Rights and Legal Protections for Persons with Disabilities
UN, with the nations across the globe taking the initiative to educate the people regarding the rights and legal protections for people with disabilities.
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UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
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Education rights
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Employment protections
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Healthcare rights
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Legal capacity
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Independent living
How to Participate in the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025?
People should try to show their participating in support with people with disabilities. The authorities can create an environment for them to support a positive change in equality.
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Educate yourself
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Advocate locally
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Challenge stereotypes
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Support organisations
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Practice inclusion
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Use inclusive language