Welcome to the United Nations
Nothing about Us, Without Us
The observance of the Day in 2004 will focus on the active involvement of persons with disabilities in the planning of strategies and policies that affect their lives. The motto “Nothing About Us Without Us” relies on this principle of participation, and it has been used by Disabled Peoples Organizations throughout the years as part of the global movement to achieve the full participation and equalization of opportunities for, by and with persons with disabilities.
The active involvement of persons with disabilities in the ongoing elaboration of a convention on the rights of persons with disabilities has proved to be an excellent example of how the principle of full participation can be put into practice and how it can contribute to the development of truly inclusive societies, in which all voices are heard and persons with disabilities can help shape a better world for all.
Observance of the Day offers an opportunity to foster changes in attitudes towards persons with disabilities and eliminate barriers to their full participation in all aspects of life.
Secretary-General's message on the International Day of Disabled Persons
UN Chronicle - International Day of Disabled Persons, 2004
Question and answer session
The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 47/3 of 14 October 1992. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
The theme for observance of the Day in 2004 is "Nothing About Us Without Us" aims to provide an opportunity to focus on the active involvement and participation of persons with disabilities in the planning of strategies and policies that affect their lives.
The event aims to highlight the role of media in raising awareness about the rights and potentials of persons with disabilities as well as the importance of the participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.
Organized by the Division for Social Policy and Development, Department of Economic and Social Affairs with the support of the Department of Public Information. Special thanks to the Victor Pineda Foundation for its contribution.