Kathmandu - The 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed across the country on Tuesday with a series of programmes aimed at reaffirming the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
The Government of Nepal, in coordination with concerned agencies and organisations working in the disability sector, organised awareness programmes, discussions, and interaction sessions to mark the day. The events focused on strengthening disability-inclusive policies and addressing long-standing barriers faced by persons with disabilities in accessing public services, education, employment, and infrastructure.
Observed globally since 1992 following an initiative of the United Nations, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is marked every year on December 3 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and to encourage inclusive development worldwide.
This year’s theme, “Promoting a Disability-Inclusive Society: Advancing Social Progress,” highlights the critical link between social development and inclusion. Speakers at various programmes emphasised that meaningful social progress is not possible unless persons with disabilities are fully included in social, economic, and political life.
Nepal’s Constitution recognises the rights of persons with disabilities to live with dignity and self-respect and guarantees equal access to public services and facilities. However, disability rights advocates and civil society representatives noted that gaps persist between policy commitments and their implementation on the ground. They called for stronger enforcement of existing laws, disability-friendly infrastructure, accessible public services, and greater participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
The Day served as a reminder that achieving an inclusive and just society requires collective responsibility, sustained policy action, and a rights-based approach that places persons with disabilities at the centre of development efforts.
