The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons was declared in 1992, by the United Nations General Assembly. This day aims to endorse the thoughtfulness about issues faced by persons with disabilities whilst also mobilizing support for their rights, well-being, and dignity in all aspects of society. The aim of raising awareness for this is to also understand the gains obtained from the inclusion and integration of persons with disabilities. The theme for this year is, ‘Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities towards an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world.’
According to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities of the United Nations, "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." Approximately 15% of the world’s population today or more than 1 billion people live with some form of disability. Out of this, 80% live in developing countries. This proves that we need to focus on the lives of people living with disabilities even more, especially as we still live under the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.
People with disabilities are more at risk due to many factors like relying on physical contact for support, facing discriminatory criteria based on the assumption of the value of their life, having more susceptibility to co-morbidities which puts them at higher risk, and many other factors like these. It is very important to realize that they are at higher risk not because of their disability but because of neglect, ignorance, and discrimination.
