The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3rd, reminds us that all barriers can be overcome and that dreams can be achieved. It is a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of persons with disabilities and promoting their rights and inclusion in all aspects of life.
This day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and to advocate for equal opportunities, accessibility, and the removal of societal barriers. It calls for creating an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully and enjoy a dignified life.
On this day, various events and activities are organized globally to highlight the capabilities and talents of persons with disabilities. These may include seminars, exhibitions, workshops, and cultural performances that showcase their skills and achievements.
Kingdom's laws to protect the rights of people with special needs:
The Kingdom has given great attention to the rights of people with special needs, according to an Islamic reference that encourages giving humans the ultimate care. In fact, its greatest goal is preserving and protecting the legitimate rights of all people, especially people with special needs.
The Kingdom ratified and signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Special Needs on 4/6/2008. Article 27 of the agreement stipulated the work and employment law for people with disabilities as human rights guaranteed by the Kingdom, in accordance with the Islamic Sharia.
People with special needs: People suffering from a complete or partial stable deficiency in physical, sensory, mental, communicative, educational, or psychological abilities, to the extent that it reduces their ability to meet their own normal needs in the same conditions others without disabilities are in.
Disability: A person can have several disabilities, as follows: visual impairment, hearing impairment, mental disability, physical and motor impairment, learning difficulties, speech disorders, behavioral and emotional disorders, double and multiple disabilities, autism, and other disabilities that require special care.
Prevention: A set of medical, psychological, social, educational, informational and systemic procedures aimed at preventing or reducing disabilities and their early detection, in addition to minimizing their consequences.
Care: It includes comprehensive care services that are provided to every disabled person in need of care by virtue of their health condition and degree of disability, or due to their social status.
Rehabilitation (Available only in Arabic): A coordinated process of recruiting medical, social, psychological, educational, and professional services to help disabled people achieve the maximum degree possible of functional effectiveness. This aims to enable people with disabilities to comply with the requirements of their natural and social environments. It also develops their abilities to depend on themselves and become a productive members of society whenever possible.
The state guarantees the rights of disabled people in terms of prevention, care, and rehabilitation services. Moreover, institutions and individuals are encouraged to contribute to charitable work in the field of disability. These services are provided to this segment of citizens through the concerned authorities.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities sends a powerful message that disability should not be a limitation but rather a part of human diversity. It encourages us to embrace diversity, promote inclusivity, and ensure that the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are respected and met.
By promoting awareness and understanding, we can work towards creating a world that is more inclusive, accessible, and supportive of persons with disabilities. Together, we can break down barriers, empower individuals, and create a society where everyone can thrive and fulfill their aspirations
