At least one billion persons with disabilities were hit hard by the pandemic, said the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Guterres encouraged everyone to involve persons with disabilities to build a sustainable, inclusive future by leaving no one behind.
He said: “Realizing the rights, agency, and leadership of persons with disabilities will advance our common future.
“We need everyone, including persons with disabilities, on board to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.”
The UN chief said persons with disabilities and their supporting organizations were taking action around the world to create a better future.
Noting that the COVID-19 pandemic affected persons with disabilities the most, the secretary-general said a disability-inclusive pandemic response and recovery is desperately needed and must established with input by persons with disabilities themselves.
“I urge all countries to fully implement the convention on the rights of persons with disabilities, increase accessibility, and dismantle all barriers with the active involvement of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations,” Guterres added.
