International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on December 3, a day dedicated to raising awareness of disability issues and promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities worldwide.

History of International Day of Persons with Disabilities

This observance was officially proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly under resolution 47/3. It followed a period during which the UN declared the 1980s and early 1990s as focused on disability issues — first through the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981, and later the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983–1992). ¹
Since then, every December 3rd has been used to draw attention to the need for equal opportunities, accessibility, inclusion, and the full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.

Why this day is important

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities matters because it highlights the reality that persons with disabilities often face, from barriers to accessibility to social exclusion, limited opportunities, and discrimination. By dedicating a day to these issues, the global community acknowledges these challenges and calls for action.

It also encourages societies to recognize the rights and contributions of persons with disabilities, promoting inclusion, respect, and dignity for everyone, and reminding us that building an accessible world benefits all.

• It raises awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
• It promotes rights, dignity, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
• It encourages societies to remove barriers, physical, social, economic.
• It supports inclusion and participation of disabled persons in all aspects of life.
• It reminds people of our shared responsibility to build a fair and accessible world.

How to Observe International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Observing this day can be both thoughtful and impactful. Individuals, communities, schools, workplaces, anyone, can take steps to foster inclusion and support. Consider educating yourself and others about disability issues, advocating for accessibility in public spaces, or supporting organizations that help disabled people.

It’s also a good moment to listen to people with disabilities: learn about their experiences, amplify their voices, and treat accessibility and respect as everyday values, not just once-a-year actions.

• Learn and share facts about disability rights, accessibility, and inclusion.
• Support or volunteer with local disability-support or advocacy organizations.
• Advocate for accessible public spaces — ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, inclusive design.
• Listen to and amplify stories of persons with disabilities.
• Treat inclusion as a daily commitment, not just a one-day event.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities Dates Table

1. https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-of-persons-with-disabilities[↩]