The upcoming event titled “74 Countries and 125 Global Institutions Participate in We Are Inclusion” is set to create a significant impact on the discourse surrounding mental disabilities. Organizing a platform for sharing innovative practices, this conference highlights the need for stronger social and humanitarian support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Set to commence in 2025, the 18th edition of this conference will gather insights from diverse global experiences, aiming to empower affected individuals and their families.
Initiatives and Themes at the Conference
Sarad Al Yafei, the General Director of the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, revealed that the 18th global conference “We Are Inclusion” will delve into a multitude of social and humanitarian issues affecting individuals with mental disabilities. For the first time, this conference will be held locally and across the Arab world, marking a pivotal moment in advocacy efforts.
Al Yafei also emphasized that this year’s discussions will focus on the educational, health, and employment rights of individuals with disabilities. A particularly crucial topic will be the closure of institutional care centers both locally and globally. She noted, “A person with an intellectual disability should live within their family and community, the environment they are accustomed to from early childhood.”
A Unique Approach to Knowledge Sharing
One of the standout features of the conference “We Are Inclusion” is its avoidance of traditional academic research papers in favor of global case studies. Over the course of three days, 152 different global experiences will be shared, illustrating practical solutions and community-based approaches. Al Yafei remarked that having advocates from around the world share similar concerns fosters invaluable emotional and social support for families involved.
Global Participation and Support
The involvement of 74 countries and 125 global institutions showcases the international community’s commitment to enhancing the lives of those with intellectual disabilities. This collaboration highlights a collective understanding of the importance of creating inclusive environments where individuals can thrive alongside their peers.
Moreover, the conference aims to encourage the sharing of best practices, allowing participants to learn from each other’s successes and challenges. By fostering a global dialogue on the best methods of inclusion and support for individuals with mental disabilities, “We Are Inclusion” aims to manifest change that resonates well beyond the borders of any single nation.
The Road Ahead
As “We Are Inclusion” prepares for its impactful discussions, the anticipation among participants continues to build. With a focus on shared experiences rather than theoretical discussions, the conference is poised to offer practical insights that can be directly applied in local contexts worldwide. By enhancing the global narrative surrounding mental disabilities and advocating for the rights of these individuals, the conference aims to leave a lasting legacy in the realm of humanitarian services.