3 December marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), a day where we reaffirm our commitment to advancing disability inclusion and protecting the rights of people affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF).
This year's theme, 'Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress', calls on us to place inclusion at the centre of social progress. Social development requires an enabling environment where all members of a community are supported, empowered and able to participate meaningfully. Progress for people with disabilities is progress for all; inclusion drives success.
Approximately 1.3 billion, or one in six people globally live with a significant disability, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Leprosy remains one of the leading causes of preventable disability, and those affected often face stigma, discrimination and social exclusion. Following the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), disability has been recognised as a matter of human rights. A rights-based approach transforms IDPD from a day of awareness to a platform that requires accountability, inclusion and action-driven change for people with disabilities and their communities.
Throughout 2025, Lepra has embedded inclusion across programmes. In Bangladesh, Mind to Heart is an example of disability inclusion going beyond physical care, where emotional wellbeing is presented as equally essential. This program supports individuals facing isolation and discrimination, improving emotional resilience and social connectedness, allowing for people with disease-related disabilities to participate more fully in their communities and livelihoods.
In India, the ASPIRE project, delivered in partnership with Canadian global health organisation Effect Hope, directly supports the reduction of preventable disability through active case-finding and awareness campaigns for leprosy and LF, covering 1.8 million people living in Jamui District, Bihar. In doing so, ASPIRE advances key priorities of the CRPD by strengthening early intervention, reducing barriers to healthcare and supporting inclusive systems that prevent the development of avoidable disability.
Another example of advocacy for people with disability is through the Neglected Tropical Diseases Resource Units (NTDRU’s) who have facilitated hundreds of self-support groups (SSGs). These groups not only provide a support system for people whose disease or disability may expose them to prejudice and discrimination, but they also provide a platform from which persons with disabilities can lead on advocacy to improve their daily lives, with lived experience outlining the path towards progress.
These initiatives represent important steps forward, yet continued efforts are required as millions are still unable to access their full rights under the CRPD. Our advocacy must continue through strengthening health systems, expanding inclusion and ensuring that people affected by leprosy and LF can access timely care and fully exercise their rights.
A continued focus on inclusion will not only improve health outcomes but also drive social and economic empowerment. This approach reinforces the principle that when all individuals are supported and included, we can create stronger and more equitable communities for everyone.
