Today (December 3rd) is the annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities which aims to promote a better understanding and awareness of disability issues and to raise support for the dignity, rights and general well-being for those affected by disabilities. The creation of awareness aims to further integrate individuals with disabilities in all facets of political, social, economics and cultural life.
Barriers Affecting People With Disability
Approximately 15% or just over one billion people, live their lives with some form of disability and so it is fair to say that they are the “Worlds Largest Minority” and there are many barriers which can limit involvement in today’s society. Barriers can consist of the physical environment or relating to Information technology, barriers relating to legislation or policy and from negative societal attitudes or discrimination. Ultimately this means that those who do suffer from disability will not have equal access to our society and services, which include education, employment, health care, public transport, political involvement and justice.
When barriers relating to inclusion are removed and those who suffer with disabilities are empowered to fully integrate and participate in society, the whole community will benefit. Therefore these barriers need to be permanently removed so as the “Whole” of society can prosper, develop and progress.
When barriers relating to inclusion are removed and those who suffer with disabilities are empowered to fully integrate and participate in society, the whole community will benefit. Therefore these barriers need to be permanently removed so as the “Whole” of society can prosper, develop and progress.
Convention on the Rights of Person’s with Disabilities
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) highlights the existence of such barriers and constitutes central element of disability. Within this convention, disability is an evolving concept that:
“results from the interaction between persons with impairments and attitudinal and environmental barriers that hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.”
Accessibility and inclusion of individuals with disabilities are fundamental rights as recognized by the CPRD. The basic premise of this convention is to urge State bodies to undertake measures to ensure disabled individuals have access to all aspects of society on a level ground with others.
Despite conventions such as those listed by the CPRD, the lack of awareness in many parts of the world is astounding human problem which is halting the development of the Millennium Development Goals as well as numerous other international programmes which have been set up.
So today is a day for highlighting the need for equal rights as mentioned above. By creating further awareness progress can be made and obstacles can be removed to create full inclusion for people who are affected by disability. If you would to help, share this information with others and help to spread the promotion of this commemorative day.
If you or somebody you know is affected by a physical disability, we would be more than happy to offer advice and treatment. All of our Chartered Physiotherapists have experience in the treatment of physical difficulties, so if you think that we can help you in any way, please do not hesitate to contact us.
