RI Regions
Middle East & North Africa (MENA)
The inaugural World Congress on Rehabilitation (WCR) 2024 was convened in the Middle East from September 23 to 25, 2024 (the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi). The congress focused on the integration and empowerment of individuals with disabilities in the workforce, operating under the theme of “Work and Employment.” Notably, the event attracted 1,077 attendees from 81 countries and featured over 190 speakers who addressed key topics including workforce integration, AI and technological advancements, and policy development. Furthermore, the congress served as a platform to examine the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, automation, and the evolving labor market, with a view to formulating a global action plan to sustain the ongoing empowerment of individuals with disabilities.
In September 2024, the World Congress on Rehabilitation 2024 was successfully held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, marking a significant milestone. This achievement was made possible through a collaborative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by three esteemed organizations: Rehabilitation International (RI), the International Social Security Association (ISSA), and the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO).
The MoU emphasized a shared dedication to advancing the rights and integration of individuals with disabilities on a global scale. Through this partnership, the organizations sought to reinforce initiatives addressing the hurdles faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing the labor market, combating marginalization, and promoting inclusive career advancement opportunities in both public and private sectors.
The MoU between RI, ISSA, and ZHO has established a groundwork for continual collaboration, with plans for sustained initiatives aimed at championing the rights and social inclusion of individuals with disabilities. This partnership exemplifies a commitment to effecting tangible change in establishing accessible, equitable, and supportive environments for individuals with disabilities worldwide.
Advancing Disability Rights and Inclusion in the MENA Region
The awareness of disability rights and inclusion within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is on a promising upward trajectory. Governments and organizations are increasingly committed to fostering accessible environments, enhancing healthcare and support services, and ensuring that individuals with disabilities are integrated into education and employment sectors.
Despite the progress made, several challenges remain. These include inconsistent definitions of disability, gaps in data collection, and diverse cultural perspectives that may obstruct a cohesive approach to inclusion. Addressing these complexities is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence of disability and the varied needs of individuals across the region.
This situation highlights the importance of regional collaboration. By sharing resources and data, MENA countries can collectively establish consistent and effective support systems, ultimately promoting a more inclusive society for all.
Several MENA countries are making noteworthy advancements in this area. For example, the United Arab Emirates has implemented strong programs to support individuals with disabilities through organizations such as the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO), which prioritizes inclusive education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Similarly, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative exemplifies a robust commitment to integrating people with disabilities into the workforce and public life, reflecting a serious dedication to accessibility.
Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that political and economic challenges in countries like Lebanon and Jordan can impede service delivery, resulting in limited access to resources and inconsistent data. This underscores the necessity for regional cooperation to overcome these gaps, ensuring equitable support for all individuals with disabilities in the MENA region. By relying on accurate and unified data, policymakers can craft informed strategies that effect meaningful change. Together, we can work towards a more inclusive future.
Leadership
H.E. Abdulla Al Humaidan
Vice President
RI Middle East and North Africa Region
Hashem Taqi
Deputy Vice President
RI Middle East and North Africa Region
Call for Contributors: Collaborating to Enhance Disability Data
To improve the understanding of disability in the Middle East, we call on experts, research institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and healthcare providers to contribute to maintaining current and comprehensive data. Collaboration is essential to ensure policies, services, and programs are tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities.
We encourage contributors to:
- Share updated research, studies, and findings.
- Submit regional reports and statistical updates.
- Participate in the exchange of knowledge through forums and conferences.
- Work collaboratively with local and international organizations to address data gaps.
Send us email: VPO.RI@zho.gov.ae
The Future of Disability Inclusion
Hashem Taqi is the General Manager of the Kuwait Society for the Handicapped and the first Kuwaiti to assume a key post in RI Global. Taqi, who has been working for the Kuwait Society for the Handicapped for nearly 35 years, previously served as RI Global’s Middle East Chair. Established in 1971, the Kuwait Society for the Handicapped offers various free services, such as medical care, rehabilitation and education to persons with disabilities. The Society started with the caring for 30 children with disabilities, and now it owns a modern purposed designed centre for 250 multiply disabled children, as well as day care centers in Hawally, Jahra and Ahmadi.
H.E. Abdulla Abdulalee Al Humaidan is Secretary General of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination. He holds a Master Degree in Business Administration from Abu Dhabi School of Management, United Arab Emirates. He obtained his Bachelor in General Management Information Systems and Higher Diploma in Business Information Technology from the Higher Colleges of Technology, United Arab Emirates. He has more than 24 years of experience in various sectors such as Oil Gas, media, and social sector. He is dedicated in providing services to people of determination(disability) through an integrated social system in cooperation and partnership with several agencies in the public, private and third sectors in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Currently an effective member of many organizations and committees such as Member of the Supreme Committee of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak’s Program for Excellence and Community Intelligence and the Social Sector Committee in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Chairman of the Audit Committee, Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority.
Previously he was also a member of the Board of Directors of the National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) since 2012 till 2022. Also was a member of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council Board of Directors since 2019 till 2022.
And, since 2019 he was a member of the steering committee for a project to study an integrated framework for social services. In addition, he was a member of the Abu Dhabi Higher Committee for Services for People of Determination – Ministry of Community Development.
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