International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Know the History, Significance and Theme of the Day

Every year, International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated globally on December 3. The motive of observing this day is to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. Nearly one billion people out of the total population or approximately 15 per cent of the world’s population is suffering with some form of disability. 

People with Disabilities (PwDs) get affected “disproportionately” by the health, social and economic consequences of the global issues. The day raises an awareness about the participation of disabled people in the sustainable development of the world. 

History of the Day 

It was in 1992 that the annual observance of this day was proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The day aimed to raise an awareness about the issues dealt by persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted to observe this day in 2006. The CRDP has advanced the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and other international development frameworks. 

Significance of the Day 

People with any kind of disability suffer from poor health, lack of equal opportunities in education and sometimes in work too. The lack of opportunities affects their lifestyle and physical and mental well-being as well. The day is celebrated for the people with disabilities to create an awareness in the world about their issues and to make it a better place for them. 

Theme of the Day 

For 2021, the theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities is “Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-Covid-19 world.”