International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3, is an international day dedicated to ensuring the full and active participation of individuals with special educational needs in social life, raising public awareness, and promoting understanding of disability. It was declared by the United Nations (UN) on December 3, 1992. The day highlights the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities and the importance of equal access to opportunities in social life.

Scope and Importance

Disability refers to the limitations individuals face in daily life due to physical, mental, social, or economic conditions. Disabilities vary widely, and the number of people with disabilities is increasing due to population aging and the rise in chronic diseases. Therefore, facilitating access to health, education, and social services for people with disabilities and ensuring equal opportunities in society is crucial.

UN, promotes each year’s theme to encourage people with disabilities to live in a society with greater accessibility and equal opportunities. The theme for 2024 was “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.” It emphasizes the active participation of people with disabilities in society, realizing their potential, and taking an active role in social life.

History and Celebrations

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was declared in 1992 by the UN General Assembly resolution 47/3.^【1】 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities features discussions, forums, and campaigns on disability issues. Communities organize meetings, consultations, and demonstrations to show that persons with disabilities are active members of society. These events also highlight activities in which people with disabilities can participate despite their challenges.

Prevention and Health Services

Preventive measures include newborn screenings for hearing, phenylketonuria, biotinidase deficiency, hypothyroidism, early diagnosis and treatment of developmental hip dislocation, and hemoglobinopathy screenings. Efforts are underway to expand early-age screenings. Measures to facilitate access to healthcare for persons with disabilities include:

• Providing attendant personnel in health facilities for disabled and elderly patients,
• Training healthcare staff in sign language for communication with hearing-impaired individuals,
• Prioritizing outpatient services,
• Adjusting registration and admission processes to accommodate special needs,
• Ensuring transfer between health facilities for disabled or orphaned patients if needed,
• Preparing patient rights documents in audio and Braille formats,
• Including personnel serving people with disabilities in ongoing in-service training programs.

Regulations have been established for disability health board reports, with separate guidelines for adults and children. Home healthcare services are conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Family and Social Services, NGOs, and municipalities. These services target individuals with respiratory diseases, bedridden patients, terminal-stage palliative care patients, and those with severe muscular disorders. Home healthcare includes examination, testing, treatment, medical care, follow-up, and rehabilitation.

Education and Social Participation

The goal is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with special educational needs by ensuring accessibility, equal opportunities, and social participation. The General Directorate of Special Education and Guidance Services conducts programs that take into account each individual’s interests, desires, abilities, and needs.