Message from Dr. Nawaf Kabbara, President, International Disability Alliance
Dear members of the disability movement,
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I am honored to address each of you who are a part of our powerful, diverse, and resilient global movement. Today, as we reflect on this year’s theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” we celebrate not only our achievements but also our determination to continue to shape the world and transform societies to be fully inclusive of persons with disabilities, in line with the duties and promises of the CRPD.
Representative leadership is at the heart of our movement. The work of organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) has been instrumental in driving transformative change—ensuring that our voices are heard, our rights are respected, and our visions for the future are realized. It is through your tireless efforts that societies are being reshaped to embrace inclusion, dignity, and equity for all.
As a global alliance, and a network of networks uniting OPDs from every region, we at IDA remain more committed than ever to supporting OPDs worldwide in their efforts to drive systemic change. By working together, we ensure that inclusion is embedded in policies and practices globally, in all areas, from disability-inclusive education and employment to equitable access to healthcare and humanitarian assistance. We firmly believe that collective leadership and solidarity is needed more than ever before.
The challenges we face—whether in deinstutionalization, access to inclusive education, employment, healthcare, or acces to justice—are daunting, but they are surmountable through our joint efforts. Our leadership as persons with disabilities is the catalyst for creating solutions that are informed by our experience, rooted in justice, and powered by collective action. Together, we are demonstrating that full inclusion is not a mere aspiration; it is a necessity for sustainable development and a better world.
To the organizations of persons with disabilities: Your work is essential. You are the advocates who ensure policies are not just written but implemented. You are passionate activists and human rights defenders. You are the voices that challenge stereotypes, and you are the leaders who inspire communities to embrace diversity. I urge you to continue amplifying your leadership at every level—locally, nationally, and globally—because your impact is transforming the world. To our allies and supporters, without your support we cannot make the change we all know is needed. We thank you on this day, knowing that the shared commitment to advancing the disability rights agenda is a vital task for us every day of the year.
As we mark this day, let us also reaffirm our commitment to solidarity within our movement. By working together across borders, communities, and sectors, we are stronger and more effective. Let us celebrate our achievements, but also recognize the road ahead—one that demands our continued passion, creativity, and collaboration.
I thank each of you for your leadership, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to a future where persons with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of society. Together, we are not just imagining a better world—we are building it.