Making the SDGs Work for and with Persons with Disabilities

On 17 December, UN DESA hosted an innovative Global Policy Dialogue titled "Making the SDGs Work for and with Persons with Disabilities." This hybrid event was held at the SDG Studio at UN Headquarters in New York, as well as online, presenting a pivotal opportunity to amplify voices of persons with disabilities and inspire action towards a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world.

The event brought together global stakeholders to discuss the connection between disability and sustainable development. It coincided with the release of the UN Disability and Development Report 2024, which highlights the socio-economic circumstances of the 1.3 billion persons with disabilities worldwide and the progress and barriers they face under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Despite advancements since 2015, the report underscores the urgent need to accelerate efforts to achieve the SDGs for persons with disabilities by 2030.

The 75-minute event featured two interactive panel discussions with global experts, addressing themes such as progress since 2015 and strategies for creating inclusive societies. Audience members engaged through polls, questions, and discussions facilitated by professional moderator Angelica Malin. Notable speakers included representatives from UN DESA, the International Disability Alliance, and Disability Rights International.

In case you missed the event, watch the broadcast on UN DESA’s Facebook page here, or via UN Web TV here.