To commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, the Visitors Services Section, in partnership with the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), hosted a series of events underscoring dignity, inclusion, and the urgent challenges faced by persons with disabilities in conflict and humanitarian settings.
The day began with a powerful briefing by UNMAS Global Advocate Giles Duley. Drawing on his extensive field experience, Duley highlighted how persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected by violence, discrimination, and barriers to protection during crises.
He stressed that disability is not a limitation, but that societal attitudes often create more obstacles than physical conditions themselves.
His message emphasized human dignity, community-level peacebuilding, and the role each individual can play in fostering more inclusive and compassionate societies.
Following the briefing, the Visitors Services Section welcomed members of New York City-based veterans’ associations, persons with disabilities, and communities affected by the remnants of war.
They took a special guided tour of UN Headquarters led by three tour guides: James Marcus (Guyana), Nodoka Yamagata (Japan), and Gerusa Braz (Cabo Verde).
It provided insight into the Organization’s work on accessibility, human rights, and global cooperation, offering participants a comprehensive look at how the United Nations advances the rights of persons with disabilities.
Guests then attended the evening launch of the UNMAS exhibition, “Forward NOT Fragmented,” featuring physical artifacts and an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience that simulated a landmine-affected environment.
The VR demonstration offered participants a direct understanding of the dangers faced by mine-affected communities and the long-term consequences that often result in life-altering injuries and disability.
Together, these events offered an engaging and meaningful commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming the Organization’s commitment to inclusion, safety, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities worldwide.
