The United Arab Emirates has made significant strides in supporting people of determination, as showcased during its participation in the 18th Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, known as “COSP18.” Held at the United Nations headquarters in New York from June 10 to June 12, this conference brought together nations and organizations dedicated to discussing and promoting the rights of individuals with disabilities. Under the leadership of Her Excellency Sana’a Mohamed Hareb, the UAE’s Minister of Community Development, the nation outlined its commitment to empowering people of determination and ensuring their integration into society.
Commitment to Inclusive Development
At the heart of the UAE’s national statement delivered at COSP18 was a strong affirmation of its dedicated efforts to support people of determination. In her remarks, Her Excellency highlighted, “In the UAE, we believe that individuals with disabilities, or as we call them ‘people of determination’, are partners in nation-building, possessing capabilities that deserve appreciation and equal opportunities for empowerment and participation.” This sentiment underscores the UAE’s comprehensive approach, which is rooted in values of tolerance and justice.
Strategic Frameworks and Achievements
The UAE has achieved remarkable progress across six key areas aimed at enabling people of determination: healthcare, education, employment, social protection, accessibility, and community participation. These efforts are bolstered by a robust legislative framework, notably Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, along with local strategies such as the Abu Dhabi and Dubai strategies for the integration of people of determination. During the presentation, the UAE delegation discussed several milestones, including the development of inclusive educational environments and the establishment of more than 35 specialized government centers, alongside the accreditation of over 46 private centers dedicated to serving people of determination.
Innovative Employment Initiatives
The national statement also outlined significant advancements in employment, aimed at fostering inclusive workplaces in both public and private sectors. Key initiatives include creating accessible infrastructure, such as transportation systems and public facilities designed with the needs of people of determination in mind. The UAE’s investment in innovative technologies further ensures seamless access to essential services, reinforcing its commitment to empowering this vital segment of the population.
International Engagement and Collaboration
On an international level, Her Excellency Sana’a highlighted the UAE’s hosting of numerous major events aimed at promoting attention to the needs of people of determination, such as the International Rehabilitation Conference in 2024 and the 2019 Special Olympics. Furthermore, the historic decision to host the Asian Paralympic Committee headquarters in 2019 emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to supporting people of determination both regionally and globally.
The UAE delegation at COSP18 included representatives from various government bodies, reflecting a collaborative national effort involving the Ministry of Community Development, the Executive Council of Dubai, and the Abu Dhabi Community Development Department. This ensemble represents a unified front aimed at enhancing comprehensive support for people of determination within an integrated and sustainable framework.
Amid the conference, the UAE hosted the “Forum” event, serving as a cultural and diplomatic gathering designed to foster dialogue among global stakeholders regarding this crucial topic. This event not only facilitated the exchange of ideas on support mechanisms but also reinforced the UAE’s influential role as a leader in shaping inclusive policies and systems.
The participation of the UAE during the 18th Conference of States Parties exemplifies its integral role in advancing the rights and support for people of determination. The unified approach of the Emirati delegation, encompassing both governmental and public sectors, reflects the nation’s commitment to addressing challenges and building opportunities for individuals of determination.