Every December 3rd, the world pauses to recognize something deeper than a date on a calendar. We pause to honor people. Human beings. Citizens whose lives, contributions, and stories are woven into the social, economic, and moral fabric of every nation.
For me, this day is not a slogan or an annual reminder. It is a lived reality. It carries the weight of decades of advocacy, personal experience, and the unwavering belief that no society can call itself civilized if it leaves people behind. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is, at its heart, a call to keep building societies that see ability before disability, dignity before difference, and equality before convenience.
Today we honor millions of people whose strength, resilience, and talent enrich their communities every single day. We also honor families, caregivers, organizations, and professionals who stand behind them—often quietly, always faithfully.
But celebration alone is not enough.
This day asks us to look honestly at where we stand. Many barriers remain—physical, digital, social, economic, and legal. Many people with disabilities still face discrimination, limited opportunities, inaccessible environments, and policies that do not reflect their daily realities. The challenges are real, but so are the solutions. And those solutions begin with political will, inclusive planning, and a genuine belief that accessibility is not charity, but a right.
Progress happens when we treat inclusion as a national priority—not an optional project. It happens when our cities, schools, hospitals, transportation systems, and workplaces are built for everyone. It happens when universal design becomes a culture, not an afterthought. It happens when governments invest in data, laws, training, and enforcement—not because the world is watching, but because it is simply the right thing to do.
As someone who has had the honor to serve globally, including as the inaugural Chair of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, I have seen firsthand how transformative inclusive policies can be. I have witnessed how nations rise when they choose accessibility, and how communities flourish when every member is given a fair chance to contribute.
December 3rd is our reminder that disability is not an exception—it is part of the human experience. At some point in every family, every community, and every society, disability touches us all. This truth is what should unite us, motivate us, and ground our work.
Let us use this day to recommit ourselves:
- To fairness.
- To equal opportunity.
- To participation without barriers.
- To policies that reflect humanity, not bureaucracy.
- And to building societies where every person—without exception—can live with dignity, autonomy, and hope.
The journey ahead is long, but it is possible. And together, we can make December 3rd not just a day of recognition, but a day of progress.
With respect and sincere wishes on this important international day,
By Dr. Mohammed Moh. Al-Tarawneh
International Expert in Disability Rights & Inclusive Development
Former Inaugural Chairperson, UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
