International Day of Disabled Persons, 3 December 2007

Since 1992, the 3rd of December has been observed annually as the United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons (IDDP). The day provides opportunities for Governments, organizations of disabled persons and society as a whole to focus upon and take stock of the gains to be made from the inclusion of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

This year's theme "Decent Work for Persons with Disabilities" focused on the right of persons with disabilities to work on an equal basis with others.

In the Asia-Pacific region the International Labour Organization, together with Disables Persons' International and Irish Aid, chose to acknowledge the day by organizing the photographic competition "Decent Work for Persons with Disabilities", with the aim to raise awarness of the International Day of Disabled People and to promote and understanding within the Asia-Pacific region of people with disabilities and their right to decent work. More information about the contest can be found here.

Visit the photo gallery to see the winning photos and others that were chosen for exhibition.

Other related information:

ILO calls for new efforts to support people with disabilities in the world of work (press release)

New ILO report: "To Right to Decent Work of Persons with Disabilities" by Dr. Arthur O'Reilly" (pdf)

Actress Marlee Matlin, "leading lady" for people with disabilities (video)

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