Cairo: The Arab League reaffirmed its commitment to advancing joint Arab initiatives aimed at supporting persons with disabilities (PWD) and enhancing their empowerment. The League emphasized its determination to address challenges and support achievements to foster Arab communities that are fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable.
According to Qatar News Agency, the League issued a statement in recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3rd each year. The statement called on member states to intensify national efforts, cultivate joint Arab partnerships, invest in supportive technology, and involve PWD in decision-making processes, with a particular focus on women and youth.
The League's statement expressed hopes that peace and security will prevail in nations affected by armed conflict, creating opportunities for social development with a focus on PWD, ensuring they experience safety and harmony within a framework of social justice.
The Arab League emphasized its dedication to supporting PWD, acknowledging them as a fundamental component in building Arab communities. It highlighted the efforts of nations and institutions working to enhance the engagement and empowerment of PWD across various fields.
Additionally, the League noted its vigilance in monitoring significant challenges faced by PWD, as reported by member states, and the crucial milestones highlighted in these reports.
The League urged the implementation of the Arab League Secretary-General's initiative, "The Second Arab Decade for Persons with Disabilities, 2023-2032," at the national level. This initiative outlines essential development themes and practical executive plans.
This year's observance is themed "Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress," aligning with the outcomes of the Second Global Summit on Social Development. The summit emphasized the necessity of creating societies that are fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable, integrating the disability perspective into public policies as essential for achieving social progress and comprehensive development.
This vision underscores a global and Arab commitment to placing PWD at the center of development processes, ensuring that no one is left behind.