Introduction:
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is an international observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues in order to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness by integrating the persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, economic and cultural life.
Facts:
Disability is an impairment that results in restrictions on an individual's ability to perform one or more of jobs that are essential in everyday life, such as self-care or practicing social relations or economic activities, within the normal limits.
Statistics:
- Global statistics: The rate of disabled persons in the world is 15%
- Local statistics: The number of disabled persons in Saudi Arabia is 1.5 million persons.
Objectives of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities:
- Highlighting the rights of persons with disability in all fields (educational, rehabilitation, sports, recreational, physical and community integration.
- Activating awareness and cultural role among different segments of society.
- Benefits that can be gained from integrating persons with disability in all aspects of life, political, social, economic and cultural, which are beneficial to them and their communities.
- Promoting their self-confidence and capabilities through their participation in different activities.
- Providing psychological and social support for disabled people and their families.
- Raising awareness about educational and rehabilitation programs designed for them.
- Identifying the main obstacles facing the disabled people in their daily life and means to facilitate them.
- Exchanging ideas, views and experiences.
- Reviewing ways and means of developing partnership between families and service centers.
Official date:
Globally: December 3rd, 2106
Locally: Rabi Al-Awal 4th, 1438H
Theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities:
Achieving 17 Goals for the Future We Want
Targeted Groups:
- Persons with disabilities and their families.
- Specialists in medical rehabilitation.
- National Organizations and Specialized centers.
- Schools and universities.
- Ministries and institutions.
- The public.