Government gives top priority to people of determination

DUBAI: The UAE has placed top priority for the welfare an empowerment of the people of determination to ensure that they have full access to healthcare, education, employment and importantly, participation in the public life, said Hessa Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development.

In a statement made on Sunday to mark the International Day of Disabled Persons, which falls on the Dec.3 each year, Hessa Buhumaid said the welfare of people of determination is an integral part of the social development approach, envisioned by the UAE leadership.

“A top priority for the National Agenda and the UAE Vision 2021, is to promote an inclusive environment that integrates all segments of society, including the people of determination, while preserving the UAE’s unique culture, heritage and traditions and reinforces social and family cohesion,” the Minister said.

She also referred to the launch of the creation of the People of Determination Advisory Council as another step to empower this segment and enables them to play an important part in the country’s development.

It provides counsel and support to all entities looking to implement the National Policy for the Empowerment of People of Determination.

The Policy - launched by the Ministry of Community Development - seeks to remove obstacles that inhibit the full integration of people of determination and their families.

The Minister said this year’s International Day of Disabled Persons, coincides with the Arab Disabled Day, observed on Dec.13 each year, which was proclaimed following a resolution by the Council of Arab Social Affairs ministers, which was signed and ratified by the UAE and other Arab countries.

The International Day of Disabled Persons is celebrated this year under the theme “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all.”

It aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

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