Fifteen Percent
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2018, WHO supported the “FifteenPercent” photo exhibition with the UN Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner (OHCHR) at the Palais des Nations from 3-10 December, each photo showing an individual with a disability and describing their story. The event aimed at portraying the multiple natures and identities of humanity as a celebration of difference and diversity.
The objective of the day was to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
Key messages
- People with disability are often unable to access either mainstream services or the specialized programmes they need. Unless progress is made on this front, we will fail to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and their ambitious vision to leave no one behind.
- Rates of disability are increasing due to population ageing and increases in chronic health conditions, among other causes.
- Making all health care services accessible to people with disability is achievable and will reduce unacceptable health inequalities.
- The Model Disability Survey assesses the needs, barriers, and inequalities faced by people with disability across the whole population. Already 12 countries are collecting and using these data to improve the lives of people with disability.