#IDPD2024: Empowering Disability Leadership for Global Inclusion and Sustainability
The African Disability Forum extends its solidarity to all persons with disabilities globally as we commemorate the 2024 UN International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). Under the theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” we emphasize the critical importance of strengthening the leadership and agency of persons with disabilities in shaping their own lives and the world around them. This theme highlights the need to ensure that persons with disabilities are not only included but also empowered to lead, advocate, and drive positive change within their communities and beyond.
The Africa Regional Summit 2024
During the Africa Regional Summit in Nairobi on September 5th, 2024, representatives from 38 African countries united to address key issues affecting the lives of persons with disabilities, focusing on inclusive education, accessible health services, economic empowerment, and political participation. This reflects our commitment to prioritizing the rights and needs of persons with disabilities for a more inclusive society.
Commitment to Disability Rights and Equality
We are encouraged by the continued ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the African Disability Protocol (ADP). However, much remains to be done. We call on governments, development partners, and the international community to reinforce their commitments to the principles of non-discrimination, equality, and inclusion as outlined in the Nairobi Declaration and the Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025.
Disability Inclusion in the Climate Change Agenda
We also acknowledge the global climate crisis and the growing advocacy for disability inclusion within the climate change agenda, particularly for youth with disabilities. Harnessing their potential through inclusive education is crucial for achieving sustainable development and empowering them to lead and advocate for the issues that matter most.
Key Global Events
The observance of the #2024IDPD coincides with key global events, such as the Summit of the Future, COP29 and the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development.These key global summits will complement each other in charting a roadmap for disability-inclusive and sustainable peace and development. The leadership of persons with disabilities will be crucial in ensuring that these agendas are inclusive, rights-based, and grounded in the lived experiences of persons with disabilities.
Call on Governments
We call on governments to reaffirm their commitment to disability-inclusive policies and frameworks, prioritizing the needs and voices of persons with disabilities at all levels of decision-making. We encourage the creation of spaces where persons with disabilities are not just consulted but are empowered to lead in the development of policies, programs, and solutions that affect them. These efforts will create pathways for a more inclusive and sustainable future for all, in line with the vision outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Role of OPDs
We also recognize the vital role that organizations of persons with disabilities play in driving these changes. They are not only advocates but also leaders, using their lived experiences to inform solutions that can benefit entire communities. It is crucial that we continue to support and invest in these organizations to ensure that they can fulfill their mandate and continue to be at the forefront of change.
A Call for Action Towards the Global Disability Summit 2025
The 2024 International Day of Persons with Disability (IDPD) should be a time to renew our shared commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are central to global development, with active participation in decision-making processes. We reiterate our call for the creation of inclusive and accessible systems, policies, and practices that uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of ability.
As we move towards the Global Disability Summit 2025, let us remember that the leadership of persons with disabilities is not just a right but a necessity. Together, we can amplify the leadership of persons with disabilities, ensuring that they are active agents of change and that their contributions are recognized and valued.
Let us pledge to break down barriers and accelerate progress towards a truly inclusive and sustainable future for all. As we approach the Global Disability Summit 2025, we urge governments, the private sector, and the civil society to commit to concrete, actionable measures that will ensure no one is left behind.
Together, we can create a world where persons with disabilities can live in dignity and equality, participate fully, and contribute to society without barriers.
#AmplifyingLeadership
#NothingAboutUsWithoutUs
#DisabilityRightsAreHumanRights
#GDS2025
#InclusiveFutureForAll
#IDPWD2024
