Ministry of Social Development Statement on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities: The Occupation's Practices and the Growing Struggles in Palestine
On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3rd every year, the Ministry of Social Development extends its sincere greetings to persons with disabilities who face life's challenges with determination and perseverance amidst the ongoing aggression on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, which resulted in the martyrdom and injury of many civilians. Persons with disabilities are among the most affected groups, as they face difficulties in finding safe places, which leads to the loss of lives or permanent injuries. According to a report by the World Health Organization, at least a quarter of the injuries in Gaza are life-altering and require rehabilitation (permanent disabilities), with the number estimated between 13,455 and 17,550 injuries requiring rehabilitation. This aggression has also caused amputations, with the number of cases ranging between 3,105 and 4,050.
Amidst the ongoing aggression, persons with disabilities are suffering from tragic consequences, facing greater difficulties in mobility and accessing assistance. They also experience a lack of psychological and social support, exposing them to further isolation and psychological stress. Additionally, the destruction of homes and infrastructure has exacerbated their dire situation, as many of them lack safe spaces to protect them from attacks or means to facilitate their movement and shelter.
On this day, the Ministry of Social Development emphasizes the need to protect and enhance international solidarity with persons with disabilities in Palestine, especially in Gaza, and to support their basic rights, particularly in the areas of education, health, and social empowerment. Improving the living environment for persons with disabilities in Gaza is a top priority in any humanitarian or developmental efforts, within the available resources, to continue providing aid to our people in the region in collaboration with international and national institutions and disability organizations, prioritizing the delivery of assistance to persons with disabilities.
The Ministry also continues to coordinate and pressure international partners to provide protection and deliver the necessary urgent assistance and services to our people in the Gaza Strip, mobilizing all available resources and capabilities to aid our people and strengthen their resilience.