On 3 December 2025, the United Nations will commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.” This year’s observance builds on the momentum of the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2), held in Doha from 4–6 November 2025, where world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to building a just, inclusive, and equitable world. The Doha Political Declaration reminds us that advancing social development is impossible without the full inclusion of all segments of society.
The IDPD underscores that disability inclusion is essential for sustainable development and social progress. The Global Disability Fund (GDF) drives systemic change by embedding accessibility and inclusion across development, climate, and humanitarian sectors; because progress for persons with disabilities means progress for all. Guided by the principle “Nothing About Us Without Us,” GDF invests in organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) to lead reforms in policy, services, and financing. From accessible infrastructure and digital platforms to inclusive protection systems and climate resilience, GDF turns global commitments into action, ensuring no one is left behind.
This year, GDF is proud to participate in key events marking the IDPD:
Webinar: Disability-Inclusive Climate Action
Co-hosted with CBM Global Disability Inclusion and Life Haven, this session will spotlight collaboration between climate actors and the disability movement, creating a platform for sharing experiences and resources. It is a call to action for inclusive approaches to climate justice, resilience, adaptation, and governance.
📅 Tuesday, 2 December
🕛 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM (EST)
➡️ Join the event here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/rg9fi4TTTTGw_o5u20Gnug
Official UN Commemoration of IDPD
The virtual event will bring together Member States, UN leaders, disability advocates, and youth. It will feature an opening segment on fostering disability-inclusive societies through the Doha Political Declaration, followed by a panel discussion on enabling factors for inclusion. GDF Director Dr. Ola Abualghaib will speak on commitments and initiatives under the Global Disability Fund.
📅 Wednesday, 3 December
🕛 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM (EST)
➡️Join the event here: https://zoom.us/j/91600322753
UCLG Session: Advancing Local Commitments
Hosted by United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), this session will review progress on local and regional governments’ Global Disability Summit (GDS) commitments and discuss next steps for capacity building and CRPD localization. GDF will share updates on the Resilient and Inclusive Cities Hub initiative. Outcomes will inform UCLG’s advocacy ahead of the Fourth Global Disability Summit.
📅 Thursday, 4 December
🕛 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM (EST)
➡️Join the event here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/rw1gi6GMQqWCbDxpWY0iew#/registration
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is more than a commemoration: it is a call to action. Together, we can dismantle systemic barriers, embed accessibility in every sector, and ensure that no one is left behind. Follow GDF’s work, engage with our initiatives, and be part of the movement for a just, inclusive, and equitable world.