On 3 December, we observe the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), an annual event established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992 (Resolution 47/3). This important Day aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities while championing their dignity, rights, and wellbeing. It also highlights the benefits of fostering inclusion across political, social, economic, and cultural spheres.
The theme for IDPD 2024, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”, underscores the urgent need for representation and empowerment in leadership roles. According to the World Health Organization, persons with disabilities constitute 16% of the global population but are often excluded from leadership opportunities – particularly in sectors such as healthcare. Barriers such as discrimination, stigma, and limited access to education and employment persist, limiting progress toward equality and inclusion.
This year’s observance will feature a variety of events worldwide, with the main celebration taking place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 3 December 2024, both in person and online. For more information and to register, visit the official event page.
To honour this Day, the library has curated a special book display featuring resources on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), social development, and leadership, which we invite you to browse and borrow from the Reading Room.
We hope you will join us in observing IDPD and be part of the global movement to help build a more inclusive and sustainable society for all.
