Amman: The multi-regional preparatory summit for the Global Disability Summit 2025 (GDS) commenced in Amman to ensure concrete commitments ahead of the global summit. Jordan, Germany, and the International Disability Alliance (IDA) will co-host GDS 2025 in Berlin in April. President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), Prince Mired bin Raad, emphasized Jordan's commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities. According to Jordan News Agency, Prince Mired highlighted Jordan's achievements since the introduction of the modern anti-discrimination law in 2017 and discussed strategies to further support disability rights. He cited the participation of His Majesty King Abdullah II in the 2022 Summit in Norway as a reflection of the government's dedication to these issues. Minister of State at Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Jochen Flasbarth, asserted Germany's commitment to making inclusion a central aspect of life. He stressed that inclusion must be integrated into every part of society. Jordan's Minister of Social Development, Wafa Bani Mustafa, pointed out the summit's role in renewing global commitment to the empowerment of persons with disabilities. Bani Mustafa stated her ministry's focus on ensuring social justice and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, aligning with international agreements. Annette Tabara, Director-General for Disability Affairs and Social Solidarity at Germany's Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, talked about sharing best practices on inclusive education and accessibility. Nawaf Kabbara, President of the International Disability Alliance (IDA), urged for increased disability-inclusive investments. He highlighted the importance of disability organizations in planning and implementing summit outcomes. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, emphasized the conference as a chance to strengthen a unified vision for disability rights in the Arab r egion. UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Heba Hegras, discussed transforming challenges into opportunities for positive change. She stressed the need for supportive systems to ensure access to services and information during crises. Maya Morsi, Chairperson of the 43rd session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs, described the summit as vital for building a common vision for disability inclusion. Sherry Anderson, UN Resident Coordinator, highlighted the need to address challenges faced by persons with disabilities in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon. HCD Secretary-General Muhannad Azzeh expressed hope that the summit would serve as a turning point in advancing disability rights. The two-day conference includes sessions to develop actionable commitments for the global summit.
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