Global population stands at 7 billion people, and more than one billion people live with some form of disability. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is marked on December 3 every year. The day aims to promote empowerment, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities at all levels of society. This enhances their capacity in societies and supports them in setting their own priorities. Empowerment involves investing in old people’s jobs, health, nutrition, education, and social protection. When people are empowered they are better prepared to take advantage of opportunities, become agents of change, and readily embrace their civic responsibilities.
In Pakistan, many campaign groups and civil society organizations are working on disability rights. The National Assembly (NA) has passed a Disability Rights Act to provide a comprehensive legal framework to protect and promote the rights of people with disabilities in Pakistan. According to the legislation, quality mobility aids and assistive technology will be provided at affordable prices. No person or institution will be able to discriminate against persons with disabilities. Special education institutions will be established, and the government will provide free education to persons with disabilities. The introduction of this law represents a historic step for the country. Everyday, thousands of people are excluded from public life simply because they have some form of disability. This new law will allow them to challenge incidents involving this kind of discrimination through the legal system. It gives individuals legal recourse in all areas of life including education, employment, and healthcare.
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