Five facts to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Held annually, this important day protects the rights of disabled people around the globe and celebrates the value they bring. Says Zahira Quattrocchi, Group Head of Culture and Organisational Development: “At Anglo American we believe that we have a duty as an employer to make sure all colleagues are given equal opportunities to reach their full potential, regardless of any disability or impairment.  We want everyone to have a sense of belonging and thrive at Anglo American and De Beers Group.”

To mark this day, we’re sharing five need-to-know facts about the day.

1) The first IDPWD was in 1992

It was started by the United Nations (UN), which has been committed to disabled people’s rights and equality since it began in 1945. The day aims to mobilise support for the dignity, rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities while educating people about the barriers to inclusion, and how we can all overcome them.

2) This year’s theme is …

“United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities.”

What does this mean? The SDGs are the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to address the globe’s environmental, economic and social development. Essentially, they’re the targets the world needs to meet to become a fair, equal and accessible society.

There are 17 SDGs and disability is referenced in seven of them. These include making cities safer and more inclusive, access to equitable, quality education and reducing inequality. Sadly, the world isn’t currently on track to meet these goals, so we all need to do our bit to change that before the 2030 deadline.

3) Over one billion people – 15% of the world’s population – live with a disability

And that number is increasing. Many countries have an ageing population and older people are at a higher risk of having a disability. That means the world needs to become more accommodating for people with disabilities.

Having a disability often goes hand in hand with other societal problems. Poorer people who live in worse conditions with unsuitable housing and/or pollution are much more likely to develop a disability in their lifetime. That’s why 80% of people with disabilities live in developing countries.

4) Not all disabilities are visible

The definition of disability under international law includes more conditions than you might think. If someone has a physical or mental impairment that has a long-term impact on their day-to-day activities, the law says they’re disabled. This means they get special protections and accommodations.

These impairments include mental health, chronic pain and fatigue, as well as neurodiversity. IDPWD encourages to recognise and celebrate these groups.

5) It’s a day of celebration and optimism

IDPWD is about creating a fairer society for everyone. We’re currently facing many problems and challenges around the globe, but we look optimistically towards a future that’s accessible and inclusive to all.

By celebrating this day, we show support for disabled people. It’s a reminder to take action to make their lives better. It’s a day to highlight the achievements of people with disabilities and a reminder of the contribution they can make.

Find out more

Check out the IDPWD website or the dedicated section on the UN website.

Other resources include the UK Government’s guide to inclusive language and leading disability organisations like PurpleSpace and Business Disability Forum.