Background
The 32nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities is being observed worldwide on the 17th of Mangshir, 2080 according to the Nepali calendar, which corresponds to the date of December 3, 2023. Various programs and events are being organized globally to celebrate this day. It aims to shed light on the reasons behind observing this day and its significance, raising awareness through media channels about the rights of persons with disabilities, and calling for collective support and cooperation to improve their rights and living standards. On December 3rd, the world comes together to recognise World Disability Day, a momentous occasion dedicated to promoting understanding, awareness, and acceptance of people with disabilities. It’s a day to celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals with disabilities while also acknowledging the challenges they face in their daily lives.
History of International Day of Persons with Disability
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been observed since 1992 to promote the rights of persons with disabilities, spread awareness in society, and ensure their recognition, self-respect, and dignity globally. Initially referred to as the International Day of Disabled Persons, the UN General Assembly officially renamed it on December 13, 2006, focusing on the rights of persons with disabilities. Since 2008, it has been observed as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities worldwide.
The United Nations, in collaboration with Disabled Peoples’ International (DPI), established in 1981, announced the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981, initiating a ten-year World Program of Action concerning Disability from 1983 to 1992, dedicating this period as the International Decade of Disabled Persons.
The Theme for This Year’s Observance
The United Nations has declared the theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities as
“United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities”
Simultaneously, the Nepalese government has set the national theme as
“दिगो विकास लक्ष्य प्राप्तिको प्रतिबद्धता; अपाङ्गता भएका व्यक्तिको अपनत्व र नेतृत्व सहितको ऐक्यबद्धता”
The theme for World Disability Day 2023 encapsulates the fundamental essence of inclusion and empowerment. It highlights the crucial role that individuals with disabilities play in building a more equitable and sustainable society. The theme emphasises the need for equal opportunities, accessibility, and the removal of barriers to ensure the full and meaningful participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.
Understanding Disability
The term is used to refer to individual functioning, including physical impairment, sensory impairment, cognitive impairment, intellectual impairment mental illness, and various types of chronic disease. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) defines disability as:
“Persons with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.”
This definition emphasizes that disability is not just a result of an individual’s impairments but also arises from the interaction between those impairments and societal barriers. The CRPD aims to promote the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities by addressing these barriers and ensuring their equal participation in all aspects of life.
SUSWA’s commitment to working with persons with disabilities
The bilateral project, SUSWA is to clarify the human rights, gender and disability inclusion elements and to identify concrete action points to strengthen the inclusion and non-discriminatory practices of the project. The aim is to contribute to building the capacity of the duty-bearers to fulfil human rights and rights-holders to claim their rights and the creation of an enabling environment with inclusive practices and processes in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector in the implementing municipalities.
Concretely, the goal is to increase access to qualitative WASH services in particular for women, persons with disabilities and members of groups in vulnerable positions as well as to ensure their rights and needs are being attended to by the local governments and that they have opportunities to participate in decision-making processes in issues that concern them. The project supports fighting against discrimination in Nepal taking into account discrimination on multiple and intersecting grounds (such as gender, ethnicity, disability, age and other grounds). The project also takes note of and constantly assesses the intersectionality of disability inclusion, climate resilience and gender equality.
SUSWA’s commitment to working with persons with disabilities in the context of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) is rooted in several crucial reasons:
Inclusivity and Equity: WASH services must be inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. Persons with disabilities often face barriers in accessing clean water and sanitation facilities. SUSWA aims to ensure equity by addressing these specific needs and providing accessible solutions.
Health and Hygiene: Persons with disabilities are often at a higher risk of contracting waterborne diseases due to difficulties accessing clean water and sanitation facilities. By prioritising their needs in WASH programs, SUSWA aims to improve their health outcomes and promote better hygiene practices.
Rights and Dignity: Ensuring inclusive education equips persons with disabilities with essential skills and awareness of their rights, fostering their empowerment. Likewise, by generating job prospects and cultivating inclusive work environments, we not only enhance economic independence but also enrich organizational diversity and innovation. Upholding the fundamental human right to access clean water and sanitation, SUSWA prioritizes providing persons with disabilities the same dignity and respect by focusing on meeting their specific WASH needs.
Adaptive infrastructure: In the digital age, technology has become a great equalizer. Assistive technologies and innovations have opened doors for people with disabilities, granting them access to information, communication, and opportunities previously inaccessible. Investing in inclusive technology and promoting its widespread availability can significantly enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. SUSWA works to develop and implement WASH infrastructure that is adaptable and accommodating to various disabilities. This might include accessible toilets, ramps, handrails, and other modifications that enable people with disabilities to use these facilities comfortably and independently.
Empowerment and Participation: Accessibility remains a cornerstone of empowerment for persons with disabilities. It’s not just about physical access but also encompasses access to education, employment, healthcare, technology, and social inclusion. Governments, organizations, and communities must work hand in hand to create environments that are accommodating and accessible to everyone. Involving persons with disabilities in the planning, implementing, and evaluating WASH programs empowers them as active participants. It ensures that their voices are heard, their unique needs are understood, and the solutions provided are effective and sustainable.
Legal and Policy Frameworks: Advocacy and awareness are crucial in breaking down societal barriers and stereotypes surrounding disabilities. It’s imperative to foster a culture of understanding, empathy, and support, promoting the rights and dignity of every individual regardless of their abilities. Many international conventions and local policies emphasize the rights of persons with disabilities to access essential services, including WASH. SUSWA aligns its initiatives with these frameworks to ensure compliance and promote an inclusive approach. By prioritizing the needs of persons with disabilities in their WASH programs, SUSWA not only fulfils its moral and ethical obligations but also contributes significantly to creating more inclusive and healthier communities.
Events that took on World Disability Day
World Disability Day celebrates diversity, resilience, and the remarkable achievements of people with disabilities. It’s an opportunity to honour their unique strengths and talents, showcasing that diversity enriches our world and strengthens the fabric of our communities.
1. The National Federation of the Disabled Nepal- NFDN event
The National Federation of the Disabled Nepal- NFDN marked the International Day for Persons with Disabilities with an inspiring lineup of events! From exhilarating wheelchair races to engaging games, the day was filled with empowerment and celebration. SUSWA, a proud partner, joined in this celebration. The Honorable Minister Mr Khadga Bahadur Pokhrel graced the occasion, honouring it with his presence. It was a day of inclusivity, showcasing the incredible abilities and resilience of people with disabilities.
Winner of women’s wheelchair competition receiving a certificate from Honorable Minister Mr Khadga Bahadur Pokhrel
2. Chattreshwari Celbretated 32nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities
In Chatreshwari Rural Municipality, the 32nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities was commemorated in an uplifting gathering among various competitive events, a thrilling wheelchair race for children with disabilities captivated everyone’s spirits. The winners were rewarded with bags, books, and pens, celebrating their achievements. Mr Bhuma Vikal, President of the Progress Mental Health Self-Reliance Group, received well-deserved honours, and Mr Tikaram Budha, Ward Chairperson, led the festivities.
Winners are being rewarded with bags, books, and pens.
Some Glimpses of the celebration of the big day
International Day of Persons with Disability reminds us of the collective responsibility to build an inclusive world where every individual, irrespective of their abilities, has equal opportunities and rights. Empowering persons with disabilities isn’t just a one-day affair but an ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity, understanding, and support. Together, let’s continue to strive for a world that embraces diversity and empowers every individual to reach their full potential.
