International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024: History, Theme and Significance
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on 3 December. It aims to promote an understanding of the emotions, feelings, and situations of a person with a disability. It also invites people to mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities.
In addition to the observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, there are many other days that are similar and thematic to the cause. On 4 January, World Braille Day is observed. World Down Syndrome Day is observed on 21 March. On 2 April, World Autism Day is observed. on 23 September, the International Day of Sign Languages is observed while another similar event — Human Rights Day is observed on 10 December.
History of International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was first proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The day is observed annually on December 3rd to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and to increase awareness of their situation in every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life.
The history of IDPD is closely linked to earlier initiatives by the United Nations, such as the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981 and the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons from 1983 to 1992. These initiatives aimed to promote equalization of opportunities, rehabilitation, and prevention of disabilities.
The establishment of IDPD was a significant step in recognizing the importance of addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and ensuring their full participation in society. The day continues to be a platform for raising awareness, advocating for rights, and celebrating the contributions of persons with disabilities.
The theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024
It aims to promote an understanding of the emotions, feelings, and situations of a person with a disability. It also invites people to mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed every year on 3 December.
The theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 is “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.” This theme highlights the importance of recognizing and promoting the leadership roles of persons with disabilities in all efforts towards creating an inclusive and sustainable world.
The theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2022 is “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.” The theme for IDPD for 2021 is “Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible, and sustainable post-COVID-19 world.” The theme this year 2020 was “Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 World”.
Significance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed annually on December 3rd, is a significant day dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The day aims to raise awareness about the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.
Here are some key aspects of its significance:
- Promoting Rights and Well-being: The day emphasizes the importance of securing the rights of people with disabilities so they can participate fully, equally, and effectively in society.
- Raising Awareness: It helps to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and the need for inclusive policies and practices.
- Advocating for Inclusion: The day encourages actions to remove barriers and create a more inclusive society where everyone can enjoy their rights and freedoms.
- Celebrating Achievements: It celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of people with disabilities, highlighting their resilience and strength.
- Mobilizing Support: The day serves as a platform to mobilize political will and resources to address the needs of persons with disabilities.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a reminder of the importance of understanding, accepting, and celebrating the diversity and contributions of all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
President Presents National awards for The Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
Quick Facts about Persons with Disabilities
Here are quick facts about persons with disabilities as estimated by the UN:
- According to the Global Report on Assistive Technology, 2.5 billion people need at least one assistive product. The demand is expected to go up to 3.5 billion by 2050.
- Nearly nine out of 10 people who need assistive technology do not have access to it – this has an adverse impact on the education, livelihood, health, and well-being of individuals, families, communities, and societies.
- An estimated 46% of older people aged 60 years and over are people with disabilities.
- One in every five women is likely to experience a disability in her life, while one in every ten children is a child with a disability.
- Persons with disabilities in the world are among the hardest hit by COVID-19.
- A person with a disability is at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. They are also more prone to severe symptoms.
Observation Dates International Day of Persons with Disabilities
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on 3 December.
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2019 | 3-Dec-19 | Tuesday |
| 2020 | 3-Dec-20 | Thursday |
| 2021 | 3-Dec-21 | Friday |
| 2022 | 3-Dec-22 | Saturday |
| 2023 | 3-Dec-23 | Sunday |
| 2024 | 3-Dec-24 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | 3-Dec-25 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | 3-Dec-26 | Thursday |
| 2027 | 3-Dec-27 | Friday |
| 2028 | 3-Dec-28 | Sunday |
| 2029 | 3-Dec-29 | Monday |
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