On the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) pays tribute to persons with disabilities and calls on the members of the international community to take the necessary measures to support these persons to counter the health, social, and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected this category of people more than others.

ICESCO also affirms that the disability challenge, faced by approximately one billion people in the world, necessitates joining efforts and using modern technological means and applications of artificial intelligence to help these persons and integrate them into societies. We must also offer them every opportunity to develop their skills, enable them to fulfill their potential, accomplish their dreams, and contribute to building the post-COVID-19 world.

In this regard, the Organization reiterates its commitment to continue according to a special priority to persons with disabilities in its action programs, projects, and activities, and to further work on the implementation and application of the initiatives it has launched, including “The Societies We Want,” aimed at disseminating knowledge and carrying out innovative programs that will contribute to building healthy, peaceful, and inclusive societies to improve the course of humanity’s future.