The United Nations highlights the importance of the universal touch-based communication system for the full realization of human rights for people who are blind or have low vision on commemorating World Braille Day.
People with vision disabilities are more likely to experience higher rates of poverty, neglect, and violence. The coronavirus pandemic and its consequent impact, such as lockdowns, has worsened their challenges, isolating them further.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also underscored the importance of making information available in more accessible formats – including in Braille and on audio platforms – so that everyone can access vital information to protect themselves and help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
For its part, the UN has implemented several good practices to promote an inclusive response to the pandemic.
World Braille Day was established by the UN General Assembly in December 2018 and Observed annually on 4 January. The date also marks the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, who, at the age of 15, invented the tactile system for reading and writing for use by people who are blind or have low vision.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates, around 2.2 billion people globally have a vision disability, of whom at least 1 billion have a vision impairment that could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed.
