UAE showcases efforts in driving inclusion of People of Determination in all areas at COSP18
15 June 2025 19:50
NEW YORK (WAM) The UAE participated in the 18th Session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP18) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from June 10-12, 2025.The UAE delegation was led by Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family.During the delivery of the UAE's national statement at the General Debate, she affirmed the UAE's commitment to empowering People of Determination, highlighting their unique abilities and their right to equal opportunities to participate in the nation's advancement.She stated, "In the United Arab Emirates, we believe that people with disabilities, or as we call them 'People of Determination', are partners in building the nation. They possess abilities worthy of appreciation and deserve equal opportunities for empowerment and participation. Therefore, the UAE has adopted a comprehensive approach to building a society that embraces all its members, founded on the values of tolerance and justice."She further highlighted the UAE's significant progress in empowering People of Determination through six key pillars of inclusion, namely healthcare, education, employment, social protection, accessibility, and community participation.She emphasised that these pillars are supported by a robust legislative framework, including Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, as well as local strategies such as Abu Dhabi's initiatives for inclusive urban development and Dubai's Disability Strategy.The UAE's statement detailed notable achievements, such as the introduction of inclusive learning environments, inclusive schools, early intervention programmes, and vocational training initiatives. These efforts are complemented by the establishment of over 35 government-run centres and the licensing of more than 46 private centres dedicated to the rehabilitation and training of People of Determination.The statement also emphasised advancements in employment, including the creation of inclusive workplaces in both public and private sectors, and developing infrastructure that is accessible to People of Determination, such as adapted public transportation and facilities. Further, innovative technologies are being integrated to improve service access.Within the healthcare sector, the UAE provides comprehensive services, ranging from treatment and rehabilitation to psychological support, while offering programmes that promote the independence of People of Determination, including life skills training and supported living options.On the international front, she shed light on the UAE's hosting of prominent global events, such as the 2024 International Rehabilitation Conference and the 2019 Special Olympics.She also highlighted the landmark decision in 2019 to establish the headquarters of the Asian Paralympic Committee in the UAE, underscoring the nation's dedication to regional and international advocacy for People of Determination.The UAE delegation to the 18th Session of the Conference of States Parties comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Family, and the Executive Council of Dubai, in addition to the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, the Asian Paralympic Committee, and Sedra Foundation, in collaboration with the UAE's Permanent Mission to the United Nations.The delegation reflects the UAE's commitment and effective approach to unifying national efforts from government entities, third-sector institutions, and the private sector to provide comprehensive support for People of Determination within a sustainable and integrated framework that promotes shared responsibility.On the sidelines of the conference, the UAE hosted "The Gathering," a cultural and diplomatic event aimed at fostering dialogue among all global parties concerned with this vital topic.This event, which brought together a large number of guests, served as a platform for exchanging ideas on the necessary means of support and empowerment for this important segment of society.The UAE's participation in COSP18 underscores its pivotal role as a global leader in shaping inclusive policies and systems. The participation of the UAE delegation, which brought together government bodies and public benefit institutions, exemplified the nation's comprehensive approach to addressing challenges and building opportunities for People of Determination.
The UAE looks forward to amplifying this momentum in its dedicated session entitled "Amplifying Our Voices: A Collective Ambition Towards Re-Imagining Community Inclusion for All." This key session will provide an in-depth exploration of the UAE's innovative strategies for inclusion and serve as a platform to drive greater collaboration among global stakeholders.
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Al Etihad
9 hours ago
- Al Etihad
UAE showcases efforts in driving inclusion of People of Determination in all areas at COSP18
15 June 2025 19:50 NEW YORK (WAM) The UAE participated in the 18th Session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP18) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from June 10-12, UAE delegation was led by Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of the delivery of the UAE's national statement at the General Debate, she affirmed the UAE's commitment to empowering People of Determination, highlighting their unique abilities and their right to equal opportunities to participate in the nation's stated, "In the United Arab Emirates, we believe that people with disabilities, or as we call them 'People of Determination', are partners in building the nation. They possess abilities worthy of appreciation and deserve equal opportunities for empowerment and participation. Therefore, the UAE has adopted a comprehensive approach to building a society that embraces all its members, founded on the values of tolerance and justice."She further highlighted the UAE's significant progress in empowering People of Determination through six key pillars of inclusion, namely healthcare, education, employment, social protection, accessibility, and community emphasised that these pillars are supported by a robust legislative framework, including Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, as well as local strategies such as Abu Dhabi's initiatives for inclusive urban development and Dubai's Disability UAE's statement detailed notable achievements, such as the introduction of inclusive learning environments, inclusive schools, early intervention programmes, and vocational training initiatives. These efforts are complemented by the establishment of over 35 government-run centres and the licensing of more than 46 private centres dedicated to the rehabilitation and training of People of statement also emphasised advancements in employment, including the creation of inclusive workplaces in both public and private sectors, and developing infrastructure that is accessible to People of Determination, such as adapted public transportation and facilities. Further, innovative technologies are being integrated to improve service the healthcare sector, the UAE provides comprehensive services, ranging from treatment and rehabilitation to psychological support, while offering programmes that promote the independence of People of Determination, including life skills training and supported living the international front, she shed light on the UAE's hosting of prominent global events, such as the 2024 International Rehabilitation Conference and the 2019 Special also highlighted the landmark decision in 2019 to establish the headquarters of the Asian Paralympic Committee in the UAE, underscoring the nation's dedication to regional and international advocacy for People of UAE delegation to the 18th Session of the Conference of States Parties comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Family, and the Executive Council of Dubai, in addition to the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, the Asian Paralympic Committee, and Sedra Foundation, in collaboration with the UAE's Permanent Mission to the United delegation reflects the UAE's commitment and effective approach to unifying national efforts from government entities, third-sector institutions, and the private sector to provide comprehensive support for People of Determination within a sustainable and integrated framework that promotes shared the sidelines of the conference, the UAE hosted "The Gathering," a cultural and diplomatic event aimed at fostering dialogue among all global parties concerned with this vital event, which brought together a large number of guests, served as a platform for exchanging ideas on the necessary means of support and empowerment for this important segment of UAE's participation in COSP18 underscores its pivotal role as a global leader in shaping inclusive policies and systems. The participation of the UAE delegation, which brought together government bodies and public benefit institutions, exemplified the nation's comprehensive approach to addressing challenges and building opportunities for People of Determination. The UAE looks forward to amplifying this momentum in its dedicated session entitled "Amplifying Our Voices: A Collective Ambition Towards Re-Imagining Community Inclusion for All." This key session will provide an in-depth exploration of the UAE's innovative strategies for inclusion and serve as a platform to drive greater collaboration among global stakeholders.
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Al Etihad
Zayed Higher Organisation raises voices of People of Determination from United Nations platform
11 June 2025 20:26 NEW YORK (WAM)During its participation in the official side event of the COSP18 conference in New York, the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) highlighted inspiring stories, innovative solutions, and called for inclusive and comprehensive Organisation reaffirmed its leadership in bringing the UAE's experience in empowering and integrating People of Determination to global forums, through its active participation in the official side event at the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18), held at the United Nations headquarters in New York under the theme: "Empowering Inclusive Development through Disability-Inclusive Action and Effective Partnerships."During the session, organised by the ZHO in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of the UAE to the United Nations and Rehabilitation International, a distinguished group of decision-makers, experts, and activists from around the world Organisation delivered a global call to action for joint work, continued collaboration, transcending borders, and fostering inclusion and empowerment for People of Determination in every also conveyed a clear message to the world: empowerment only happens through partnership, and the future cannot be truly inclusive unless all people, in all their diversity, are at the centre of policies and the session, the ZHO announced the launch of the International Journal of Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, a specialised research platform that enhances the scientific impact to serve People of Determination in partnership with Rehabilitation International, the journal aims to promote impactful scientific research that makes a difference in the lives of People of Determination his recorded opening remarks, Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of the Zayed Higher Organisation and Vice President of Rehabilitation International for the MENA Region, emphasised the importance of collective action to enhance inclusion across borders from the UAE to the stated, 'Our participation in this event reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to making inclusion and integration a sustainable approach that guarantees equal opportunities for People of Determination to participate, excel, and lead. At the ZHO, we believe that inclusion is not optional; it is essential to build a more just and sustainable future. Through this session, we have shared successful human experiences, based on a national vision of empowerment, with countries around the world. We are not here to promote achievement, but to present a practical model that reflects the vision of our wise leadership for an inclusive society that provides opportunities and supports human diversity.'He added, 'We do not merely provide care and rehabilitation services, but we are building an empowerment ecosystem that believes every individual, regardless of their abilities, has a role in the development process. This is not just a slogan, but a national commitment reinforced by the UAE's policies and implemented by the ZHO in all its initiatives.'Al Humaidan also addressed the participants from different countries, 'People of Determination are not just a topic for discussion at conferences—they are partners in policymaking and solutions. This is a firm belief we hold, embodied in our partnerships with both the public and private sectors, and with international organisations.'In a paper titled 'Success Stories and Inclusive Solutions' presented by Abdullah Al Kamali, Executive Director of the People of Determination Sector at the Organisation, he highlighted the Organisation's major achievements in professional empowerment. Additionally, he emphasised that People of Determination have tremendous potential, provided the community also believes in Kamali said, 'Inclusion does not stop at providing services, it is a belief in human potential and the right to dignity and participation.'He noted that the UAE is driven by a deep conviction in the abilities of People of Organisation developed the first national vocational qualification specifically for them, creating real opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. This translates inclusion into an economy of innovation and calls for investing in people and building a fairer, more participatory Hazza Al Darmaki, a coach at Al Ain Club for People of Determination, shared his personal journey, 'I returned from my studies in the US not only with a degree but with a mission. I founded the first football team for the Deaf in the UAE and the first official association for them. I also contributed to developing the Emirati Sign Language Dictionary in cooperation with the Zayed Higher Organisation and the UAE Deaf Association, to preserve our visual language and cultural identity.'He added, 'True empowerment is when we are the ones writing the chapters of change. My participation in the committee to host the 20th World Federation of the Deaf Congress in 2027 in Abu Dhabi was a source of national pride. Today, I continue as a coach at Al Ain Club for People of Determination, nurturing new talents and advocating for empowerment through sports and education.'Mira Al Shamsi, a genomic analyst at the Organisation and Vice Chair of the Health Committee at Rehabilitation International, stated, 'Comprehensive and inclusive health is not an additional service, it is a fundamental human right that must be ensured for all, especially persons with disabilities.' She emphasised the need to redesign health systems to be built with and for persons with disabilities, based on the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and equal opportunity enshrined in the noted that the Zayed Higher Organisation applies a data-driven, equity-based approach, where participation in the Emirati Genome Programme is not limited to diagnosis, but also aims to design tailored health and educational interventions that meet individual needs and consider genetic diversity and social underscored that building inclusive health systems requires cross-sector partnerships and real empowerment of persons with disabilities as rights-holders, not merely service recipients. She concluded, 'The UAE is committed to continuing to work in line with the principles of the CRPD to ensure fair, accessible, and human rights-based health for all.'Maryam Al Qubaisi, activist and MS Ambassador, concluded, 'I was diagnosed with the disease at 17, and it changed my dreams, but I chose to be the voice of those who aren't heard. The real barriers are not in the body but in thoughts and society.' She spoke about her 'Inclusive Design for Inclusion' initiative, affirming, 'True innovation begins when we design technology with, not for, People of Determination. Technology should not just race ahead; it must include everyone.'
Emirates 24/7
22-05-2025
- Emirates 24/7
Mansoor bin Mohammed chairs meeting of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination
His Highness reviews efficiency of social and financial support initiatives meant for People of Determination across Dubai His Highness: We are working to develop policies, legislation, and initiatives that ensure People of Determination are empowered to contribute to the development journey His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination, chaired the committee's first meeting of 2025. The meeting, held at Al Jalila Children's Development and Rehabilitation Center, was attended by members of the committee and representatives of relevant government entities. Following through on Executive Council Resolution No. (83) of 2024 instituting the committee and setting its mandate and aligning with efforts to achieve the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, discussions focused on building a more inclusive, equitable, and proactive social support system for People of Determination. The meeting reviewed diverse aspects relating to financial and social support initiatives in place for People of Determination across Dubai, including disbursement mechanisms and priority focus areas for the upcoming period. These include caregiver support, provision of medical and assistive devices, support with school tuition fees, and adaptation of home environments to ensure dignity and independence. Participating entities presented their proposals based on a comprehensive agenda covering healthcare, education, social inclusion, and infrastructure, within an integrated framework that aims to unify efforts and enhance real social impact. Sheikh Mansoor emphasised: 'Meetings of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination reaffirm our unwavering commitment to establishing an integrated system that guarantees the full rights of People of Determination and promotes their active participation in every sphere of life. The institution of the committee by a Decision of The Executive Council reflects the leadership's vision of a more inclusive and just society. It also embodies the core objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which counts human wellbeing and empowerment foremost among its priorities.' His Highness added: 'In coordination with various relevant entities, we are working to develop policies, legislation, and initiatives that ensure People of Determination have access to high-quality services and are empowered to contribute to the development journey. Through this committee, we will continue building on our successes in this regard, further expanding community and institutional partnerships to deliver a tangible and sustainable impact that meets Dubai's aspirations and reinforces its status as a leading global destination that welcomes and supports everyone, without exception.' Field visit His Highness also conducted a field visit to the Al Jalila Children's Development and Rehabilitation Center, where he reviewed the rehabilitation, diagnostic, and treatment facilities offered. His Highness gave directives for renewed efforts to enhance the quality and efficiency of services and to ensure they fully served the needs of families and individuals. He also admired handicrafts crafted by students from the Sheikha Maitha bint Rashed Al Maktoum Center for People of Determination out of Hatta stone, highlighting the immense potential of People of Determination when provided with the right opportunities. His Highness also visited the Emirates Down Syndrome Academy, an initiative of the Emirates Down Syndrome Association. The academy represents a pioneering model for social and professional inclusion that boosts the contribution of People of Determination to the community and the local economy. The meeting was attended by members of the Higher Committee including His Excellency Eng. Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, His Excellency Lt. General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, His Excellency Abdulla bin Zayed Al Falasi, Her Excellency Aisha Abdullah Miran, His Excellency Dr. Alawi Sheikh Ali, His Excellency Dr. Amer Ahmad Sharif, and Majid Abdullah Al Usaimi. The meeting concluded with renewed emphasis on the importance of unifying institutional efforts, continuously updating centralised databases, and expanding support for the most vulnerable groups. These efforts are in line with Dubai's comprehensive vision of an inclusive and cohesive society and reflect the leadership's aspirations to establish a global model of empowerment and social justice. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
