Building Inclusive Pathways for Persons with Disabilities
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in resolution A/RES/47/3 as the International Day of Disabled Persons, later adopted under its current title, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was created to focus global attention on the rights and well‑being of persons with disabilities. The United Arab Emirates uses the term ‘People of Determination’ (أصحاب الهمم) to describe persons with disabilities, reflecting a shift toward language that affirms capacity, dignity, and the value of each individual. As we observe this day, UPF works to advance the full and effective participation and inclusion of persons with disabilities, recognizing the experiences and aspirations of individuals and families whose daily lives give meaning to these principles.
Guided by the teaching of its founders, Dr. Hak Ja Han and Dr. Sun Myung Moon, who affirmed the dignity of every person, UPF encourages practical steps that strengthen rights and expand opportunities, mindful of the personal stories behind each challenge and each achievement. We advocate for equitable access to education, employment, public services, and community life, in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The founders have consistently emphasized that no community is complete unless it takes responsibility for those who face particular challenges. UPF chapters and families contribute to this effort by supporting inclusive local programs and practical services that help individuals and families manage daily life with greater ease.
In recent Peace Road events in Argentina, persons using wheelchairs moved alongside other community members, demonstrating how thoughtful planning allows everyone to take part. UPF also co-organized the First Ladies High-Level Forum during the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, where the segment on Peace and Health Disability underscored how inclusion can improve lives and strengthen societies. We therefore encourage investment in accessible infrastructure, inclusive health systems, digital access, and employment pathways that enable greater independence. We invite Ambassadors for Peace of UPF to support awareness efforts and deepen cooperation with civil society, faith communities, and local institutions so that participation becomes attainable for all.
The Global Disability Summit held in Berlin on 2–3 April 2025 rallied new commitments to health equity, accessibility, and inclusive development. Our vision of One Family under God calls for societies that remove physical, institutional, and attitudinal barriers so that each person can grow, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging. Such inclusion strengthens social cohesion and supports shared objectives of equality and mutual prosperity.
UPF also recognizes the importance of global initiatives such as the Global Disability Summit process, the work of the International Disability Alliance, and the Special Olympics movement, each expanding opportunities for meaningful participation and leadership.
Dr. Tageldin I. Hamad,
Chairman, Universal Peace Federation International
#AmbassadorsForPeace #UniversalPeaceFederation #DisabilityRights #Inclusion #OneFamilyUnderGod