International Year of Disabled Persons

International Year of Disabled Persons was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, such as those affected by Polio, Cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome. The year 1981 was designated as the International Year of Disabled Persons, with the theme "Full Participation and Equality", aiming to raise awareness about the issues faced by people with disabilities, such as Helen Keller, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Stephen Hawking. This initiative was supported by various organizations, including the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the International Labour Organization. The International Year of Disabled Persons was also endorsed by notable figures, including Jimmy Carter, Margaret Thatcher, and Pope John Paul II.

● Introduction

The International Year of Disabled Persons was an opportunity to promote the rights and dignity of people with disabilities, such as those with Spinal cord injuries, Amputations, and Mental health conditions. The year was marked by various events and activities, including conferences, seminars, and workshops, organized by organizations such as the World Bank, European Union, and the Asian Development Bank. The International Year of Disabled Persons also saw the participation of notable disability rights activists, including Justin Dart, Judy Heumann, and Frank Lanterman. The year was also marked by the release of reports and publications, such as those by the World Health Organization, UNESCO, and the International Disability Alliance.

● History

The concept of an International Year of Disabled Persons was first proposed by the United Nations Economic and Social Council in 1979, with the support of countries such as Australia, Canada, and Sweden. The proposal was then adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1980, with the resolution being co-sponsored by countries such as United States, United Kingdom, and France. The International Year of Disabled Persons was also supported by international organizations, including the Red Cross, International Committee of the Red Cross, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The year was also marked by the establishment of new organizations, such as the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, and the National Organization on Disability.

● Proclamation

The International Year of Disabled Persons was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly through resolution 31/123, which was adopted on December 16, 1980. The resolution was sponsored by countries such as China, India, and Brazil, and was supported by international organizations, including the International Telecommunication Union, World Meteorological Organization, and the United Nations Development Programme. The proclamation of the International Year of Disabled Persons was also endorsed by notable figures, including Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Deng Xiaoping. The year was also marked by the release of statements and messages, such as those by the Pope, Dalai Lama, and the Secretary-General of the United Nations.

● Objectives

The main objectives of the International Year of Disabled Persons were to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, and to raise awareness about the issues faced by them. The year aimed to achieve full participation and equality for people with disabilities, such as those with Visual impairments, Hearing impairments, and Physical disabilities. The International Year of Disabled Persons also aimed to promote the development of policies and programs, such as those related to Accessibility, Inclusive education, and Employment opportunities. The year was also marked by the establishment of new initiatives, such as the Global Partnership for Disability and Development, and the Disability and Development Cooperation.

● Observance

The International Year of Disabled Persons was observed by countries around the world, including Germany, Japan, and South Africa. The year was marked by various events and activities, including conferences, seminars, and workshops, organized by organizations such as the European Disability Forum, Asian Disability Forum, and the African Disability Forum. The International Year of Disabled Persons also saw the participation of notable figures, including Kofi Annan, Gro Harlem Brundtland, and Mary Robinson. The year was also marked by the release of reports and publications, such as those by the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

● Legacy

The International Year of Disabled Persons has had a lasting impact on the promotion of the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. The year marked the beginning of a new era of disability rights activism, with the establishment of new organizations, such as the Disability Rights Fund, and the International Disability Alliance. The International Year of Disabled Persons also led to the development of new policies and programs, such as those related to Accessibility standards, Inclusive education policies, and Employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The year was also marked by the recognition of notable disability rights activists, including Ed Roberts, Judy Heumann, and Justin Dart, who received awards such as the Presidential Medal of Freedom, National Medal of Arts, and the Prince of Asturias Award. The International Year of Disabled Persons has also been recognized by organizations, such as the United Nations, European Union, and the World Health Organization, as a key milestone in the promotion of disability rights. Category:United Nations observances