BY Naimat Ullah
PESHAWAR:December 3rd marks the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities globally, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the rights, welfare, and the impacts of disability on individuals’ lives. This day serves as a reminder that disability, whether congenital or acquired through accidents, should never be the criterion for determining a person’s abilities or their role in society. People with disabilities, like anyone else, deserve dignity, respect, and equal rights.
The significance of this day goes beyond simply acknowledging the rights of persons with disabilities. It is also about recognizing their potential to contribute meaningfully to society. Despite challenges, many individuals with disabilities have proven that they are not limited by their conditions. Their strength, determination, and talents have shown that every individual possesses something unique and valuable.
In Pakistan, people with disabilities have demonstrated that their lives are not restricted by their condition but are filled with untapped potential, which they can transform into numerous achievements through hard work and resilience. These individuals should not be seen merely as people with disabilities but as capable, valuable, and proud citizens who play a vital role in national development.
ICRC’s Efforts to Empower and Enable Persons with Disabilities
One of the leading organizations working for the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in Pakistan is the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which has been active in this area since 1984. Through its continuous efforts, the ICRC has demonstrated that persons with disabilities cannot be isolated from society; like all citizens, they have the right to live fulfilling lives. The ICRC has been working tirelessly for decades to bring smiles to the faces of those affected by disabilities.
The ICRC’s mission is to assist people with disabilities and improve their physical, mental, and economic well-being, enabling them to actively participate in social, economic, and cultural activities. Through its initiatives, the ICRC helps empower individuals, ensuring they are not marginalized, but included in all aspects of society.
