Sharjah: After three days of global discussions, the 18th edition of World Congress 2025 'We Are Inclusion' concluded in Sharjah.
According to Emirates News Agency, the congress marked a significant event as it was hosted for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa region. It gathered 152 speakers, including self-advocates, families, experts, and policymakers from 160 organizations across 74 countries, leading 59 sessions with 600 participants in attendance. The event was organized by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in collaboration with Inclusion International, and held in strategic partnership with the Sharjah Government Media Bureau. Discussions focused on inclusion, justice, and the empowerment of persons with intellectual disabilities and their families.
In her closing remarks, Sue Swenson, President of Inclusion International, emphasized the commitment to ensuring leadership that represents families and self-advocates. She pointed out the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in building a future of freedom, justice, and peace. Mona Abdelkareem Al Yafei, Director General of SCHS, highlighted the congress's key recommendations, including advancing inclusive policies, promoting involvement in decision-making, strengthening advocacy skills, expanding access to essential services, raising public awareness, and fostering cross-sector partnerships.
Hashem Taqi, President of Inclusion International MENA, praised the hospitality of Sharjah and the renewed meaning found in inclusion through the congress. The closing ceremony featured video stories and a panel discussion on 'Intellectual Disability in the Public Image.'
Jamie Cooke, Executive Director of Inclusion International, expressed gratitude for the collaboration and shared commitment seen during the congress. He acknowledged the strengthened partnerships and initiatives aimed at creating a better future for persons with disabilities.
The congress reviewed outcomes from the Family Summit and the Self-Advocates Summit, emphasizing Sharjah's commitment to involving self-advocates and families in shaping the event's vision. Luis Gabriel Villarreal, Vice President of Inclusion International, stressed the need for self-advocates to lead within their organizations and communities, supported by families and communities.
Held from 15th to 17th September, the World Congress's theme 'We Are Inclusion' reflected Sharjah and the United Arab Emirates' leading role in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and providing top-tier services to them and their families.