The 2024 theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future” underlines the importance that persons with disabilities play in making the world more inclusive and sustainable.
This focus is vital for many reasons:
- Empowering Inclusive Decision-Making: Historically, persons with disabilities have been marginalised in decision-making that directly impacts their lives. By emphasising their leadership ensures that their lived experiences inform policies and initiatives, leading to more effective and equitable outcomes.
- Advancing Human Rights: The IDPD theme aligns with the principle of “nothing about us without us”, highlighting the necessity of involving persons with disabilities in all aspects of society to uphold their rights and dignity.
- Improving Sustainable Development: Inclusive leadership contributes to attaining the SDGs. Development should be for and by all members of society, with their needs and potential valued, leading to sustainable and resilient societies.
- Combating Discrimination and Stigma: Increasing the number of leaders with disabilities helps challenge stereotyping and prejudice at the level of society, which creates greater understanding and acceptance in communities.
- Building Resilience in Communities: Inclusive leadership taps into diverse perspectives, enhancing problem-solving and innovation, vital for addressing complex global challenges such as climate change and economic inequalities.
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