UN Armenia Marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The event brought together representatives of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and UN agencies in Armenia under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”

Opening the event, UN Resident Coordinator Francoise Jacob underscored that IDPD is a call to action. She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to regular consultations with OPDs and to advancing disability rights through the upcoming Armenia-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030. UNICEF Deputy Representative Silvia Mestroni highlighted the importance of dialogue and diversity as foundations for building inclusive communities.

A panel discussion explored the gap between policy reforms and lived realities. Participants highlighted persistent challenges in implementing disability-related legislation, ensuring access to services, promoting inclusive education, and expanding employment opportunities. Speakers stressed the need for faster progress, stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.

Representatives from UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, and UNDP presented ongoing initiatives aimed at advancing disability inclusion across sectors.

The event concluded with a cultural programme celebrating the creativity and contributions of persons with disabilities. The programme featured a choir from the Special Education Complex for children with hearing impairments, performances by Hasmik Peleshyan of the Equal Rights Equal Opportunities NGO, and an art exhibition by young artist Jim Hovhannisyan.