An estimated 1.3 billion people are living with disabilities worldwide. Ensuring “health for all” is impossible without recognising and responding to their needs, as the WHO has repeatedly underlined.
For many, access to health care remains limited because financing systems are not designed with disability inclusion in mind. High out-of-pocket payments for essential services, limited insurance coverage for treatments or assistive devices, and fragmented support can leave families facing financial hardship and social exclusion.
Creating inclusive health financing is a key step towards sustainable health systems. When accessibility, affordability and equity are built into national policies, health services become stronger and more responsive for everyone.
On 3 December 2025, the United Nations will mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”
This year’s observance follows the Second World Summit for Social Development held in Doha in November 2025, where global leaders renewed their commitment to building a fair and inclusive world. The Doha Political Declaration highlights that genuine social development cannot be achieved without the full participation and leadership of persons with disabilities.
Despite this, persistent barriers remain across all regions:
- Higher risks of poverty
- Limited access to decent work and often lower wages
- Gaps in social protection, particularly in informal employment
- Restrictions on autonomy and dignity within care and support systems
- Unequal access to assistive technologies and accessible environments
As countries push forward on poverty reduction, decent work and social inclusion, disability inclusion is not only essential—it is a catalyst for long-term progress.
03.12.2025.
