opinion

December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The number of disabled people are increasing worldwide, raising different serious social issues like that of ensuring their rights.

In October 1992, the 47th session of the UN General Assembly set December 3 as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and decided to conduct activities for disabled persons in depth. It aims to raise social awareness and interest in the problem of persons with disabilities, protect their rights and make them take an active part in social life, including politics, the economy and culture.

On the occasion of the day, international organizations and different countries are organizing colourful events and activities for ensuring the equality and rights of the disabled people.

It is a consistent policy of the Workers’ Party of Korea and the DPRK to protect the disabled people and take good care of their life.

In the DPRK, the disabled people have the same rights as other members of society and enjoy a worthwhile life.

Education and public health services for the disabled are being improved and strengthened.

With the new education support system for the disabled being established, a class for hearing-impaired children has recently been added at Hwawon Kindergarten No. 2 in Hwasong District, Pyongyang.

Social policies for improving the health of disabled people and providing them with a stable life are also increasing.

The rehabilitation of disabled people is conducted centring on helping them acquire physical and mental abilities for participating in social life independently from the early stage.

A social climate of protecting and caring for the disabled is fostered on a high level.

It is becoming a trait of the nation to regard others’ pain as their own and help and lead each other.

Many disabled people are rising to national and international fame as poets, writers, musicians and athletes.

Despite his hearing impairment, Kim Sung Il made violins and was awarded a technical prize and a sci-tech prize at the ninth and tenth Pyongyang exhibitions of musical instruments.

Recently, DPRK players won two gold medals and one silver at the ITTF Asian Para Championships 2025 held in China.

The reality that the disabled people are fulfilling their wishes and developing their talents to their heart’s content is showcased in the performances annually given by members of the art group of the Korean Art Association of the Disabled on the occasion of the National Day of Persons with Disabilities (June 18) and International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Their enthusiasm to make a positive contribution to the prosperity of the country as masters of the state and society is growing day by day.