International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2020 today

People with disability have been amongst the most vulnerable populations during the current COVID-19 outbreak: WHO

Today is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day is observed every year on December 3 with an aim to promote an understanding of disability issues and give support and dignity to the well-being of persons with disabilities.

The theme of the International Day of Disabled Persons this year is Building Back Better: Toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 World. The theme focuses on strengthening collective efforts for universal access to essential services, digital infrastructure, employment and other socio-economic opportunities.

According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), people with disabilities have been affected ‘disproportionately’ by the health, social and economic consequences of COVID-19 pandemic.  WHO has supported this theme by emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive culture and responding to the urgent needs of people with disability in all aspect of society, especially during the pandemic.

 “People with disability have been amongst the most vulnerable populations during the current COVID-19 outbreak due to many health, social and environmental barriers, discriminatory attitudes and inaccessible infrastructure,” states an article by WHO. WHO says that the countries need to shift towards a service delivery system rooted in the communities, reaching out and empowering people with disabilities.