Advocacy Statement: International Day of Persons with Disabilities

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Today, on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the World Rehabilitation Fund (WRF) stands in solidarity with individuals worldwide, especially those in Lebanon who are enduring the compounded and profound challenges and consequences of an escalating socioeconomic, military, and political crisis. This day serves as a vital reminder of our shared responsibility to prevent impairments and disabilities while ensuring that every person—regardless of ability, impairment, or disability—has equal access to opportunities, dignity, and inclusion.

Persons with disabilities continue to face critical barriers to education, healthcare, social participation, inclusion, and employment. Evidence demonstrates that advancing accessible environments and nurturing inclusive attitudes, policies, and practices benefit everyone and strengthen families, communities, and society. When persons with disabilities are supported to fully contribute their unique talents and perspectives, families, communities, and societies thrive.

As an organization committed to advancing prevention, rehabilitation, inclusion, and equity, the World Rehabilitation Fund (WRF) will continue efforts in partnership and collaboration with all concerned to take meaningful value-added action. This includes proactive advocacy for the rights and needs of persons with impairments and disabilities, together with efforts to provide them with access to rehabilitation, quality education, care, and opportunities for productive and fulfilling lives that transform disabilities into possibilities.

We will work to fulfill our commitment to change and advance towards making inclusion the norm, not the exception—because no one should be left behind.