We Are Inclusion World Congress 2025 In Sharjah To Discuss Legal Frameworks For Intellectual Disabilities

The 18th Inclusion International World Congress, titled "We are Inclusion," is set to occur in Sharjah from 15th to 17th September, 2025. This event, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, will focus on legal frameworks for including people with intellectual disabilities. It marks the first time this congress is held in the region.

The congress will bring together experts in disability affairs, civil society representatives, and international human rights organisations. The aim is to review current legislation and ensure it aligns with the changing social and technological landscape. This collaborative effort seeks to modernise legislative concepts while respecting cultural diversity.

Organised by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) and Inclusion International, the event has media support from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB). Registration is open on their official website. The congress aims to equip policymakers with modern approaches that go beyond humanitarian concerns towards a comprehensive developmental vision.

A significant focus will be on the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and UAE’s federal law No. 29 of 2006. These laws protect the rights of people of determination. The event will also highlight UN recommendations and human rights principles essential for shaping inclusive development policies.

The programme will cover topics like inclusive education, family support, labour market access, legal empowerment, healthcare, community planning, self-advocacy expansion, and capacity building for field organisations. This broad scope underscores the congress's comprehensive approach and its strong legal message.

Global Platform for Dialogue

Held every four years by Inclusion International, "We Are Inclusion" World Congress is a key platform for discussing future policies supporting persons with intellectual disabilities. It gathers leaders, advocates, government representatives, and institutions from education, health, and development sectors to formulate practical recommendations enhancing participation in policymaking.

Hosting this global event in Sharjah highlights the emirate's commitment to inclusion issues. It emphasises building environments based on rights and equity principles where inclusion becomes a core value in sustainable development pathways.

With inputs from WAM